(1)

There shall be a Fund constituted by the State Government to be called the Development Fund, to be utilised for-

1. meeting emergency preparedness;
2. meeting containment of pollution caused by discharge of oil, mixtures, obnoxious substances, chemicals and other noxious and harmful substances, to preserve and protect inland waters;
3. supporting, part or whole of expenses of owners or economically backward sector involved in activities of trade and living depending solely on inland waters;
4. removal of unidentified wreck or obstruction affecting and impeding navigation; and
5. boosting up development works of inland water navigation with respect to safety and convenience of conveyance.

(2)

For the purposes of constitution of the Development Fund under sub-section (1), endeavour shall be made to design schemes of contribution from-

1. the State Government;
2. stake holders;
3. the amount collected from sale of wreck or cargo or remains thereof after deducting the expenses incurred;
4. excess fund out of judicial sale of vessels or any property or cargo after meeting the expenses incurred or set-off against the court to meet damages or functioning of the court or administrative machinery; and
5. part or proportionate disbursement of fees collected by the respective State Government as provided in this Chapter.