Bhubaneswar, Feb 11: The Odisha government is considering a proposal to reduce toll fines imposed on vehicles, Commerce and Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhusan Jena said on Wednesday. The move comes amid concerns from vehicle owners over steep penalties linked to mandatory documents.

“Our aim is not to penalise citizens unnecessarily. The government is examining the possibility of reducing the Rs 10,000 fine currently imposed at toll gates on vehicles without a Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate. Similar to a fitness certificate, a PUC remains compulsory, but enforcement will be fair and practical,” the minister stated.

He acknowledged that many vehicle owners find it inconvenient to obtain PUC certificates due to procedural difficulties and limited testing facilities in some areas. However, he emphasised that possessing a valid PUC, along with a fitness certificate and driving licence, remains mandatory to ensure compliance with transport and environmental norms.

Referring to a recent Odisha High Court ruling, Jena 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 process of PUCs.

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