Section 12. Power to give directions.

Notwithstanding anything contained in any other law but subject to the provisions of this Act, the Central Government may, in exercise of its powers and performance of its functions under this Act, issue such directions in writing as it may deem fit for the purposes of this Act to any owner or any person, officer, authority or agency and such owner, person, officer, authority or agency shall be bound to comply with such directions. Explanation.--For the removal of doubts, it is hereby declared that the power to issue directions under this section includes the power to direct-- (a) prohibition or regulation of the handling of any hazardous substance; or (b) stoppage or regulation of the supply of electricity, water or any other service