Odisha Government Withdraws Controversial 'No PUCC, No Fuel' Directive
The Odisha government has officially withdrawn its directive that made a valid Pollution Under Control Certificate (PUCC) mandatory for purchasing petrol and diesel at fuel stations across the state. This significant decision was communicated to the Orissa High Court through an affidavit filed on Tuesday, marking a reversal of the administration's earlier stance on vehicular pollution control measures.
Legal Challenge and Court Proceedings
The withdrawal comes in response to a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by Bhubaneswar resident Snigdha Patra, who challenged the legality of the state transport authority's December 20, 2025 notification. During the hearing, the court examined whether the State Transport Authority (STA) had the legal authority to enforce such restrictions under existing motor vehicle regulations.
The government's affidavit was submitted in response to a notice issued by the court on January 6 regarding the PIL. During proceedings, STA representatives argued that Rule 167(2) of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989 empowered them to deny PUCCs to vehicles with pending compliance regarding challans issued for traffic rule violations.
Court's Clear Ruling on PUCC Issuance
The division bench, comprising Chief Justice Harish Tandon and Justice M S Raman, firmly rejected the STA's interpretation of the rules. The court clarified that no provision in the regulations permits denying pollution certificates based on pending challan compliance.
"The bench directed STA to issue a notification clarifying that PUCCs would be issued even in cases where vehicles have pending compliance with challans," explained petitioner's counsel Ranjan Kumar Rout. "Furthermore, the court instructed the authority to make necessary corrections in its Vahan portal to ensure PUCCs are not denied on these grounds and to file an affidavit confirming compliance."
Background of the Controversial Directive
The original December notification had been implemented as part of the state government's efforts to combat vehicular pollution and protect public health. Authorities had maintained that operating vehicles without valid PUCCs constituted an offense under existing laws.
In justifying the measure, the STA had cited widespread non-compliance with emission norms across Odisha, noting that a substantial number of vehicles were operating without valid pollution certificates, thereby contributing significantly to environmental degradation.
Next Steps and Future Implications
The matter has been scheduled for further hearing on February 3, when the court will review the STA's compliance with its directives. This development represents a significant legal clarification regarding the scope of authorities' powers in enforcing pollution control measures while balancing citizens' rights and practical implementation challenges.
The withdrawal of the 'no PUCC, no fuel' rule brings relief to vehicle owners across Odisha while raising important questions about alternative approaches to effectively control vehicular pollution without creating undue hardships for citizens.
