Cuttack/Bhubaneswar: In a move aimed at strengthening environmental protection and improving air quality, the Odisha government has intensified enforcement measures against polluting vehicles across the state. The Commerce and Transport Department has initiated strict action to curb violations of motor vehicle rules that contribute to air pollution, particularly in urban and high-traffic districts.
Acting under the direction of Commerce and Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhushan Jena and with the direct supervision of Principal Secretary Usha Padhee, the department has issued instructions to oil marketing companies to ensure compliance with pollution control norms. As part of the new measures, petrol pumps across Odisha have been directed not to dispense fuel to motor vehicles that do not possess a valid Pollution Under Control Certificate (PUCC).
Officials said the decision is expected to play a significant role in reducing vehicular emissions and improving air quality standards, especially in districts facing rising pollution levels due to increased transport activity. The department has underscored that, under the Motor Vehicles Act, it is mandatory for all vehicles to carry a valid pollution certificate, which must be obtained through periodic testing at authorised pollution testing centres.
The department has also pointed out that legal provisions already exist for initiating action against vehicle owners who fail to comply with pollution certification requirements. To further strengthen enforcement, pollution certificate verification has been integrated into the e-detection system at toll gates, enabling automated checks and identification of non-compliant vehicles.
Appealing to vehicle owners and drivers, the Commerce and Transport Department has urged citizens to ensure that their vehicles always carry a valid pollution certificate and to refrain from using vehicles that contribute excessively to environmental pollution. The department emphasised that public participation and compliance are essential for achieving cleaner air and protecting the environment for future generations.
