Massive Spike In People Seeking PUC Certificates After MV Amendment; Applications Rise 9 Fold In Uttarakhand, Bihar

Data from 11 states shows that there has been a massive rise in the number of people seeking pollution under control (PUC) certificates in the last 18 days since the amended Motor Vehicles Act was notified, reports The Times of India.

The highest rise has been in Uttarakhand and Bihar, where the number has spiked almost nine times compared to last month (August). In Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, the increase has been approximately three times.

In Delhi, although figures have not yet been made public, officials say the number there has also risen by three times.

Union Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari credited the increased penalties and fines in the amended act with the rise in applications.

“I have maintained that rules with high penalties are not aimed at earning revenue for any government. They are only aimed at creating fear and respect for the law,” he said.

Gadkari added that along with improved PUC compliance, the introduction of BS-VI vehicles from next year would further help in ensuring a reduction in air pollution.