Importance of Pollution Control Certificate (PUC) and ways to avoid challan

To control the increasing pollution in cities like Delhi, it is mandatory to have Pollution Under Control (PUC) Certificate. Delhi Traffic Police is strictly enforcing this rule. In the last 4 months, the police have issued more than 1 lakh challans, which shows how strict the action can be if the rules are not followed.

Why is PUC certificate necessary?

PUC certificate ensures that your vehicle is not polluting the environment beyond the prescribed limits.

• Avoidance of challan: If the vehicle does not have a valid PUC certificate, there can be a fine of ₹10,000 or 6 months in jail.
• Low cost: The process of getting PUC certificate is completed at just Rs 100.
• During checking: This certificate is issued only if the pollution limit of the vehicle is within the prescribed standards. If the vehicle does not meet the standards, it is advisable to improve or repair it.

Where to get PUC certificate made?

Pollution checking centers are available at many petrol pumps and workshops in Delhi.

• You can get your vehicle checked there and get the certificate.
• During checking, the vehicle should be within the prescribed pollution standards.

Action if there is no PUC certificate

If the vehicle owner does not have the PUC certificate or it is expired, then action is taken under Section 190 (2) of the Motor Vehicle Act, 1988:

1. Fine of ₹10,000.
2. 6 months imprisonment, or both.
3. The transport department can also suspend the license of the vehicle owner for 3 months.

What if the car is causing more pollution?
If the vehicle is causing excessive pollution despite having a PUC certificate, then it will be mandatory for the vehicle owner to get a new PUC certificate made within 7 days.

Strict police monitoring for checking

• The traffic police is regularly checking the vehicles.
• The main focus is on those vehicles which are exceeding the pollution standards.