Odisha Government Takes Strict Action Against Vehicles Without Pollution and Fitness Certificates
In a significant crackdown on road safety and environmental compliance, the Odisha government has announced stringent measures against vehicles operating without valid Pollution Under Control Certificates (PUCCs) and fitness certificates. Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhusan Jena issued a stern warning on Thursday, stating that the registration certificates (RCs) of repeat offenders will be cancelled.
Immediate Action Against Non-Compliant Vehicles
Addressing media personnel in Bhubaneswar, Minister Jena emphasized the government's authority to enforce the Motor Vehicles Act. "We will take immediate action against vehicles which lack PUCCs and fitness certificates. We have enough power to do this, but we ask for people's cooperation in obeying rules and laws," Jena declared. He added that defiant vehicle owners who persistently ignore regulations will face the cancellation of their vehicle's RC.
The minister's announcement comes amid growing concerns over vehicular pollution and road safety standards in the state. Jena appealed to all vehicle owners to regularize their PUCCs and fitness certificates promptly to avoid severe penalties.
Alarming Statistics on Educational Institution Buses
During a session in the Odisha Legislative Assembly, Jena revealed troubling data regarding buses used by educational institutions. Out of 4,045 buses operating across various schools and colleges in the state, a staggering 1,171 lack valid fitness certificates. In the capital city of Bhubaneswar alone, 17 out of 796 educational institution buses are running without proper fitness documentation.
"Our department staff conduct daily inspections and issue e-challans to buses operated by educational institutions for running without fitness certificates," Jena informed the Assembly. This ongoing monitoring aims to ensure the safety of students and other road users.
Revised Penalty Structure and Enforcement Plans
In response to public feedback, the transport department has proposed a reduction in penalties for PUCC violations. The current fine of Rs 10,000 is set to be lowered to Rs 1,000 for two-wheelers and Rs 2,000 for other vehicles. This adjustment follows widespread resentment among motorists during previous strict enforcement campaigns.
The government plans to relaunch enforcement against PUCC violations starting April 1. This move comes after a temporary suspension of enforcement activities since late December 2025, which was triggered by massive public outrage over the controversial "no PUCC, no fuel" initiative. That plan, intended to deny petrol to vehicles without valid certificates, has since been withdrawn.
Clarification on Toll Gate Enforcement
Minister Jena clarified that the government has not issued any instructions to toll gates to issue e-challans for vehicles without PUCCs. This statement addresses concerns about automated enforcement at toll plazas, which had been suspended along with other detection measures.
The Odisha transport department's renewed focus on compliance highlights its commitment to balancing environmental concerns with practical enforcement. Vehicle owners are urged to adhere to regulations to avoid registration cancellations and contribute to cleaner, safer roads.
