New Delhi, Dec. 21 -- After Delhi, Odisha is stepping up its fight against vehicular pollution, with the state's Transport Authority directing oil marketing companies to stop dispensing petrol and diesel to vehicles that do not have a valid Pollution Under Control Certificate (PUCC).

This mandate is part of a broader strategy to ensure stricter compliance with emission norms and reduce environmental footprint. By linking fuel access directly to emission standards, authorities hope to compel vehicle owners to prioritise regular maintenance and adherence to clean air protocols.

According to official data, Odisha's Air Quality Index (AQI) on 21 December, 4:17 pm stands at 177, which puts it in 'unhealthy category'.

Even as Odisha steps up...