In a major step to curb rising air pollution, the Haryana government has decided to implement a “No PUC, No Fuel” policy across its National Capital Region (NCR) districts from October 1. Under the new rule, vehicles without a valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate will not be supplied petrol, diesel, or CNG at fuel stations.
The move aims to ensure that vehicle owners renew their PUC certificates on time and reduce emissions from polluting vehicles. According to the government, the objective is not to penalise motorists but to encourage compliance with pollution control norms and improve air quality, especially during the winter months when pollution levels typically rise.
The decision follows directions from the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to strengthen measures for controlling vehicular pollution in the NCR region.
To implement the policy, the Haryana government will install Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras at all petrol pumps in the state’s NCR districts by September 30.
Once a vehicle enters a fuel station, the ANPR camera will scan its registration number and verify the PUC status through the national vehicle database. If the vehicle has a valid PUC certificate, fuel will be dispensed. However, if the certificate has expired or is unavailable, the system will automatically deny the supply of petrol, diesel, or CNG.
Apart from being denied fuel, vehicle owners may also face legal action. Under the Motor Vehicles Act, driving a vehicle without a valid PUC certificate can attract a fine of up to ₹10,000.
Authorities have advised motorists in Haryana’s NCR districts to check the validity of their PUC certificates and renew them at authorised pollution testing centres before the new rule comes into effect.
The government believes the technology-driven enforcement mechanism will help improve compliance, reduce vehicular emissions, and contribute to cleaner air across the NCR region.