Efforts to combat rising vehicular pollution in India are intensifying, with Pune poised to implement a stringent measure targeting vehicles lacking Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificates. Reports indicate the development of an automated system that will identify and fine vehicles without valid PUC certificates, imposing a substantial of Rs 10,000 fine at petrol pumps.
PUC certificates are crucial for ensuring vehicles comply with emission standards, contributing to cleaner air by assessing exhaust emissions for pollutants like carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons.
The innovative system will equip petrol pumps in Pune with advanced automated cameras. These cameras will scan vehicle registration numbers and cross-check them with a central database to verify PUC status instantly. Drivers found with expired certificates will receive fines directly on their registered mobile phones. A grace period may be provided initially to allow for certificate renewal before penalties are enforced, pending official confirmation and implementation details from authorities.