Car drivers must carry essential documents such as a car registration certificate, driving license, and valid insurance. However, there is another crucial document that drivers often overlook—the Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate. Authorities have intensified checks, and failing to produce a PUC certificate can lead to hefty fines. In some cases, car owners are being penalized up to Rs 10,000, with the exact amount being determined by the police. Interestingly, obtaining a PUC certificate costs only Rs 100, making it a small price to pay to avoid heavy penalties.
How to Obtain a PUC Certificate
A PUC certificate helps determine the level of pollution emitted by a vehicle. In regions like Delhi-NCR, possessing this certificate is of utmost importance as the traffic police actively monitor vehicles contributing to pollution. The certificate is issued only after the vehicle successfully meets emission standards at a designated PUC center. If a vehicle fails the test, the owner is advised to get it repaired or tuned. The Transport Department has set up several pollution-checking centers at petrol pumps and workshops across Delhi to facilitate this process.
Legal Regulations Regarding PUC Certificates
After a certain period, it becomes mandatory for all vehicles to have a valid PUC certificate. Failure to comply results in a challan under Section 190(2) of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, which carries a penalty of Rs 10,000 or up to six months of imprisonment, or both. Additionally, the Transport Department holds the authority to suspend the vehicle owner’s license for up to three months if the PUC certificate is not available. If a vehicle continues to emit excessive pollution despite having a PUC certificate, the owner must obtain a new certificate within seven days to remain compliant with the law.
Ensuring that your vehicle meets emission standards not only helps avoid penalties but also contributes to a cleaner and healthier environment.
