PUC Certificate Odisha: STA Extends Deadline on Fuel Restriction Rule for Vehicles Without Pollution Certificate

Bhubaneswar: The State Transport Authority (STA) of Odisha has decided to defer the enforcement of its earlier directive that restricted fuel supply to vehicles lacking a valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate. Officials confirmed on Wednesday that the deadline has now been extended by one month, shifting from December 31, 2025, to January 31, 2026.

The regulation, which was initially slated to take effect from January 1, has been temporarily put on hold following a review of the challenges being faced by vehicle owners in securing valid pollution certification. The decision to extend the deadline was taken under the direction of Commerce and Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhushan Jena, according to officials familiar with the development.

During this additional grace period, vehicle owners across the state have been urged to complete their pollution checks strictly in line with the provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act. Authorities said the extension is intended to ease public inconvenience and provide adequate time for motorists to comply with the mandatory requirements.

PUC Certificate Odisha Deadline Extended After Public Feedback

Officials from the transport department stated that the postponement was approved after authorities assessed on-ground difficulties, including limited access to pollution testing facilities in certain areas. The revised timeline is expected to help vehicle owners avoid unnecessary hardship while ensuring eventual compliance with pollution control norms.

The department reiterated that the extension does not dilute the importance of emission control, but rather supports a smoother transition toward stricter enforcement without disrupting daily commuting needs.

Fuel Supply Cannot Be Denied Without PUC Certificate Odisha Until February

Clarifying the implementation guidelines, the transport department announced that petrol pumps across Odisha are not permitted to deny fuel to any vehicle solely due to the absence of a PUC certificate before February 1, 2026. Any refusal prior to this date would be considered a violation of the revised instructions.

Authorities further confirmed that enforcement measures will be strictly applied only after the extended deadline, allowing sufficient time for vehicle owners to regularise their documentation.

Statewide Awareness Drive Planned for Vehicle Owners

To improve compliance and public understanding, the transport department has planned a statewide awareness campaign highlighting the importance of pollution certification. Officials said the campaign will educate motorists on environmental responsibility, legal obligations, and the process of obtaining a valid PUC certificate.

Discussions have already been held with oil marketing companies and dealer associations to ensure smooth coordination. As part of the initiative, a 15-day intensive awareness programme will be conducted to reach vehicle owners across urban and rural regions.

Odisha Transport Department Focuses on Smooth Implementation

Officials emphasised that the primary objective behind extending the deadline is public convenience and orderly implementation. By allowing additional time and conducting awareness campaigns, the state aims to ensure that enforcement of pollution norms is both effective and citizen-friendly.

The transport department reaffirmed its commitment to reducing vehicular pollution while balancing regulatory enforcement with practical challenges faced by the public.