PUCC rule tightened in Odisha; long queues as Rs 10,000 fine triggers concern

Vehicle owners across Odisha are facing trouble as pollution control norms have been tightened from the New Year. Vehicles without a valid Pollution Under Control Certificate, or PUCC, will now be denied fuel and may face a fine of up to ₹10,000.

Following the announcement, a heavy rush is being witnessed at pollution testing centres across the state. Long queues and extended waiting hours have left many motorists frustrated.

Several vehicle owners complain of technical issues while applying for PUCCs, including errors in mobile number linking. In many cases, certificates are reportedly not being issued due to pending traffic fines, adding to the inconvenience.

The steep penalty has also sparked public resentment, with many calling the move harsh and demanding a more citizen-friendly enforcement mechanism.

Road safety expert Subrat Nanda said repeated High Court directions to set up help desks were not properly implemented, leading to unnecessary chaos. He also questioned the linking of past traffic fines with the issuance of PUCC.

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Meanwhile, authorities maintain that the stricter rule aims to curb vehicular pollution and improve air quality, urging motorists to comply with pollution norms to avoid penalties.