Odisha government relaxes PUCC enforcement till April 1

Bhubaneswar (By Abhishek Mohanty): The Odisha government has announced a temporary relaxation in the enforcement of pollution-related penalties for vehicles until April 1, providing relief to vehicle owners across the state.

Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhusan Jena has directed transport authorities not to impose fines on vehicles lacking a valid Pollution Under Control Certificate (PUCC) during this period.

As part of the decision, pollution challans generated through the e-detection system at toll gates will also remain suspended until April 1.

The move follows concerns raised by vehicle owners regarding difficulties in obtaining and renewing PUCCs. 

Officials said the relaxation is intended to give sufficient time for compliance with pollution norms.

The Minister has also ordered a comprehensive review of the existing penalty structure, particularly the current fine of Rs 10,000 for non-compliance. The transport department has been asked to examine the possibility of reducing the penalty and submit its recommendations.
However, the Minister urged citizens not to misuse the relaxation and appealed to vehicle owners to avoid using vehicles that emit excessive pollution. 

He emphasized that the temporary relief should not be seen as a dilution of the government’s commitment to environmental protection.

Authorities clarified that enforcement of PUCC checks will resume after April 1, and strict action may be taken against violators thereafter.