The directive, issued on Saturday, has been formally communicated to Indian Oil Corporation Ltd (IOCL), Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd (BPCL), Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd (HPCL), Reliance Industries Ltd, Shell India Markets Pvt. Ltd and all other oil marketing companies operating fuel stations in Odisha.
In its order, the STA flagged widespread non-compliance with emission norms, noting that “a significant number of motor vehicles are operating without a valid Pollution Under Control Certificate (PUCC), thereby contributing to environmental degradation and public health risks.”
Citing the legal basis for the decision, the authority referred to Section 190(2) of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, read with Rule 115 of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989, which mandate adherence to prescribed emission standards. The STA underlined that “operation of a motor vehicle without a valid PUCC constitutes an offence under the said Act and Rules.”
“To ensure effective enforcement of the above statutory provisions and to strengthen compliance at the ground level,” the order stated, “it is hereby instructed that petrol/diesel shall not be dispensed to any motor vehicle which does not possess a valid PUCC.”
The STA has asked oil companies to issue immediate instructions to all their retail outlet franchisees and dealers in Odisha. As per the order, fuel outlets must ensure that fuel is dispensed “only after verifying the validity of PUCC of the vehicle,” while also carrying out “adequate sensitization of retail outlet staff… regarding the legal requirement and procedure.”
The authority warned that violations would be taken seriously, adding that “non-compliance, if noticed, is viewed seriously and dealt with as per your internal control and disciplinary mechanisms.”According to the Transport Commissioner, the measure is intended to support the state’s broader push on pollution control and road safety. “The above measure is intended to support the State’s efforts towards pollution control, road safety, and compliance with environmental norms,” the order said, seeking the cooperation of oil marketing companies “in the larger public interest.”
Copies of the directive have been forwarded to the Food Supply and Consumer Welfare Department and the Commerce & Transport Department of the Odisha government for information. The STA has also written to the Utkal Petroleum Dealers Association, requesting it to circulate the order among its members to ensure strict implementation.