Odisha Ramps Up Pollution Certificate Enforcement with Hefty Fines
In a decisive move to combat vehicular pollution, the State Transport Authority (STA) of Odisha, in collaboration with the Odisha police, has launched rigorous enforcement drives across the state. This initiative follows the conclusion of the relaxation period on April 1, targeting vehicles lacking valid pollution under control certificates (PUCC). Officials announced on Thursday that violators could face fines of up to Rs 10,000, marking a significant escalation in efforts to uphold environmental standards.
Comprehensive Checks and E-Detection Systems
The enforcement strategy encompasses both physical inspections at major traffic intersections and advanced e-detection via automated traffic enforcement systems. A senior STA official emphasized that after multiple extensions and awareness campaigns, the grace period has ended, leading to strict implementation in both urban and rural areas. "From April 1, vehicles without a valid PUCC will be penalized as per the Motor Vehicles Act provisions," the official stated, underscoring the commitment to curbing rising pollution levels.
Police authorities are conducting simultaneous checks at various locations throughout Odisha, including the twin cities of Bhubaneswar and Cuttack, covering all vehicle types such as two-wheelers, four-wheelers, commercial vehicles, and public transport. Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Tapan Mohanty highlighted the evolution from manual enforcement to automated systems, noting that e-detection allows for automatic flagging of vehicles passing through surveillance corridors without proper documentation, including PUCC.
Surge in PUCC Center Footfall and Public Response
The renewed enforcement has triggered a sharp increase in visits to PUCC issuing centers across Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, and other cities. Authorized emission-testing stations reported long queues since Tuesday, with operators like Sriram Jena from Acharya Vihar noting a dramatic shift. "There was minimal activity last month, but since April 1, we've seen a large influx, especially from two-wheeler owners who previously ignored the certificate due to the relaxation," Jena explained.
Motorists have expressed varied reactions to the crackdown. Santosh Behera, a private employee waiting at a Chandrasekharpur testing center, admitted to procrastination but acknowledged the necessity. "I was aware of the requirement but delayed it like many others. With strict checking now, I got it done to avoid a hefty fine, despite some initial glitches," he said. Conversely, some commuters, such as college student Mamata Paikray, support the drive, arguing that strict fines are essential for accountability in the face of escalating pollution. "If fines make people responsible, the government should continue these efforts, but they should simplify the process rather than relying on pressure tactics," Paikray suggested.
Ongoing Drives and Health-Focused Compliance
Officials have confirmed that enforcement drives will persist in the coming days, urging vehicle owners to ensure all documents, including PUCC, insurance, and registration, are current to avoid penalties. The STA official reinforced that compliance extends beyond financial avoidance, stating, "It is about protecting public health," highlighting the broader environmental and health implications of vehicular emissions.
This intensified action reflects Odisha's proactive stance on environmental governance, aiming to foster greater adherence to pollution control norms through a blend of technological innovation and stringent penalties.
