In a major relief to vehicle owners across Odisha, the state’s Commerce & Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhushan Jena today announced a significant relaxation in the enforcement of Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate rules.
The minister has directed the Odisha State Transport Authority (STA) and enforcement officials not to impose fines for the absence of a valid pollution certificate until April 1, 2026. Additionally, the automatic deduction of pollution-related fines through the e-detection system at toll plazas will remain suspended during this period.
Key decisions announced today include:
- No fines will be levied for lack of PUC certificate until April 1, 2026
- Automatic pollution fine deductions at toll gates via e-detection will be stopped during this grace period
- The department has been instructed to examine the possibility of reducing the current ₹10,000 penalty prescribed under the Motor Vehicles Act for not having a valid pollution certificate
- Vehicle owners are strongly advised to get their pollution certificates renewed/issued during this period to avoid future inconvenience
Speaking to the media, Minister Bibhuti Bhushan Jena emphasised the importance of pollution control while acknowledging the difficulties faced by the public.
“Checking vehicle pollution is the collective responsibility of all of us. Air quality is deteriorating day by day, and improving it is our common duty,” he said.
The minister pointed out that only about 21% of vehicles in Odisha currently have a valid pollution certificate, indicating widespread non-compliance. At the same time, he noted that many citizens were facing genuine difficulties in getting their vehicles tested promptly.
“Keeping the convenience of the general public in mind, we have decided to provide this relaxation. However, this is only a temporary relief. I appeal to all vehicle owners to get their pollution certificates issued or renewed during this period,” Shri Jena added.
He reiterated that obtaining a valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate remains mandatory under the Motor Vehicles Act and stressed the need for continued public awareness and cooperation to improve air quality.
The decision is expected to provide significant relief to lakhs of two-wheeler, four-wheeler, and commercial vehicle owners in the state, particularly in urban areas where pollution checking facilities are sometimes limited.
Vehicle owners are advised to utilise the coming months to get their vehicles tested at authorised pollution checking centres across Odisha.
