Bhubaneswar, 11 February (H.S.): Odisha Commerce and Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhusan Jena on Wednesday said the state government is examining the possibility of reducing the ₹10,000 fine imposed at toll gates on vehicles lacking a valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate.

Clarifying the government’s stance, the minister said the objective is not to penalise citizens unnecessarily but to ensure compliance in a fair and practical manner. “Like a fitness certificate, a PUC certificate is mandatory. However, enforcement will be rational and citizen-friendly,” he stated.

Jena acknowledged concerns raised by vehicle owners regarding the process of obtaining PUC certificates, noting that while enforcement may sometimes appear stringent, it is essential to maintain air quality standards.

Referring to a recent Odisha High Court ruling, he said vehicle owners must clear all pending challans older than 90 days before applying for a PUC certificate. The court also dismissed a Public Interest Litigation challenging the issuance of PUC certificates for motor vehicles.

The minister reiterated that the government remains committed to balancing regulatory enforcement with public convenience.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda