In a significant ruling aimed at strengthening traffic regulation and pollution control enforcement, the Orissa High Court has made it mandatory for vehicle owners to clear all pending traffic challans before obtaining a Pollution Under Control Certificate (PUCC).
The clarification was issued during the hearing of a related case, which was subsequently disposed of by the High Court. The court categorically directed that a PUCC cannot be issued unless all outstanding challans against the concerned vehicle are paid in full.
During the proceedings, Advocate General Pitambar Acharya, appearing on behalf of the Odisha government, informed the court that the provision aligns with Section 167, Sub-section (12) of the Motor Vehicles Act. He submitted that the law authorises the enforcement of such measures to ensure compliance with statutory requirements.
After considering the submissions and examining the relevant legal provisions, the High Court upheld the state’s stand, affirming that clearance of pending challans is a prerequisite for issuing a PUCC.
The ruling underscores the importance of strict adherence to traffic rules and pollution control norms. Legal experts believe the judgment will have far-reaching implications for vehicle owners across the state, as it reinforces accountability and strengthens enforcement mechanisms under the Motor Vehicles Act.
With this verdict, the court brought the matter to a close, reiterating the need for effective implementationof traffic and environmental regulations.
