Odisha Bans Fuel Sales for Vehicles Lacking Valid Pollution Certificates

Odisha has tightened enforcement of vehicle emission norms by directing fuel retailers across the state to refuse petrol and diesel to vehicles that do not carry a valid Pollution Under Control Certificate (PUCC). The move is aimed at reducing vehicular pollution and strengthening compliance with existing environmental laws.  

The order has been formally communicated to all oil marketing companies operating fuel retail outlets in Odisha. These include Indian Oil Corporation, Bharat Petroleum Corporation, Hindustan Petroleum Corporation, Reliance Industries and Shell India Markets, along with other private and public-sector fuel retailers. 

Regulatory Push to Curb Emissions 

The State Transport Authority (STA) has observed that a large number of vehicles continue to operate without valid emission certification, undermining pollution-control efforts and posing public health risks.  

In its communication to fuel retailers, the authority stated that “a significant number of motor vehicles are operating without a valid Pollution Under Control Certificate (PUCC), thereby contributing to environmental degradation and public health risks.” 

To address this, the STA has instructed oil marketing companies to ensure that fuel is dispensed only after verifying the PUCC status of vehicles at retail outlets. The directive applies uniformly across petrol and diesel stations in the state. 

Legal Framework Behind the Order 

The enforcement action draws authority from Section 190(2) of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, read with Rule 115 of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989. These provisions mandate adherence to prescribed emission standards and penalise non-compliance. 

The STA underlined that “operation of a motor vehicle without a valid PUCC constitutes an offence under the said Act and Rules.” 

Oil marketing companies have been asked to issue immediate instructions to their franchisees and dealers in Odisha. Retail outlets are required to sensitise staff, verify PUCC documents before refuelling, and ensure strict adherence to the order.  

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Conclusion 

By tying fuel supply to emission certification, Odisha has moved to close a key enforcement gap in pollution control. The measure signals a tougher stance on vehicular emissions and could influence similar actions by other states grappling with deteriorating air quality. 

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