(1)

The State Government shall appoint or authorise such number of officers for the purpose of performing duties and implementing the provisions of this Chapter.

(2)

On an application made by owner, operator or master of any mechanically propelled inland vessel in such form as may be prescribed by the State Government, any officer appointed or authorised under sub-section (1), on being satisfied that such vessel complies with the provisions of this Act and falls under the special category vessels as identified in this Chapter, and subject to such other conditions including validity as may be prescribed by the State Government, may grant a certificate of fitness, in such form and manner as may be prescribed by that Government.

(3)

The officer appointed or authorised under sub-section (1) may, for reasons to be recorded in writing, refuse to grant the certificate of fitness in respect of an application made under sub-section (2).