Odisha Begins Strict PUCC Checks from April 1, ₹10,000 Fine for Violators

Tightened Enforcement of Pollution Certificates
The Odisha government has started strict enforcement of Pollution Under Control Certificates (PUCC) from April 1. Vehicles without valid PUCC are now being fined as per rules, informed Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhushan Jena.

Authorities have intensified checking across the state, and violators are facing penalties of up to ₹10,000.

Massive Compliance Before Deadline
Before the March 31 deadline, more than 70 lakh vehicles renewed or obtained their PUCC certificates. Earlier, there was a shortage of PUCC centres, but the situation has improved significantly with the government issuing new licenses to applicants for opening additional centres.

The minister has urged all vehicle owners to comply with the rules and obtain valid pollution certificates.

Special Drive Extended Till April 10
The enforcement drive, which began on March 21, has been extended till April 10 as part of a broader road safety campaign. Special enforcement teams have been deployed across the state since April 2 to carry out rigorous checks.

The initiative aims not only to control pollution but also to reduce road accidents and ensure safer roads.

Fuel Stations to Check PUCC Compliance
Petrol pumps have been directed to verify PUCC stickers before refueling vehicles. The transport department is also distributing green stickers free of cost, which vehicle owners are advised to display on their windshields.

Heavy Rush at Pollution Testing Centres
With strict enforcement in place, pollution testing centres, especially in Bhubaneswar, are witnessing heavy crowds as people rush to obtain or renew their PUCC certificates to avoid penalties.

Air Quality Concerns Behind Strict Measures
The move comes amid rising concerns over deteriorating air quality in the state. Authorities have emphasized that ensuring vehicle compliance with emission norms is a collective responsibility to protect the environment.

PUCC certification is mandatory under the Motor Vehicles Act, and strict implementation is being seen as a crucial step toward reducing vehicular pollution.

No More Relaxation After March 31
The government had earlier relaxed enforcement and extended the PUCC deadline till March 31 to ease public inconvenience. However, from April onwards, no leniency is being shown, and strict penalties are being imposed on defaulters.

Officials have reiterated that compliance is essential, and enforcement will continue rigorously in the coming days.