Bhubaneswar, February 11: The Odisha government is contemplating a reduction in the Rs 10,000 fine imposed on vehicles lacking a valid Pollution Under Control Certificate (PUCC) at toll gates, Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhusan Jena said.

Discussions are ongoing to address concerns from vehicle owners, but Jena clarified that PUCC compliance will remain mandatory.

The government aims to make enforcement more practical while encouraging environmental responsibility, especially with over one crore vehicles and deteriorating air quality in the state.

This comes after the Orissa High Court's recent directive, requiring vehicle owners to clear pending traffic challans before obtaining a PUCC.

The government is reviewing the fine to balance enforcement with reducing financial burdens on citizens.