(1)

Where the Central Government, after consultation with the administering authority, is of the opinion that it is expedient in the interest of development and regulation of offshore mineral resources, preservation of natural environment and prevention of pollution, avoidance of danger to public health or communication, ensuring safety of any offshore structure or conservation of mineral resources, the Central Government may prematurely terminate any operating right in respect of any mineral in any offshore area or part thereof.

(2)

No order for premature termination of operating right under sub-section (1) shall be made except after giving the holder of operating right a reasonable opportunity of being heard.

(3)

Where the holder of any operating right fails to commence operation within the period specified in section 14 or discontinues the operation for a period of two years, the operating right shall lapse from the date of execution of the lease or, as the case may be, discontinuance of the operation:

Provided that the administering authority, on an application made by the holder of operating right and after being satisfied that such non-commencement of operation or discontinuation thereof, is due to the reasons beyond the control of the holder of operating right, may condone such non-commencement or discontinuation.