Bhubaneswar, Jan. 9 -- The Odisha government has decided to relax enforcement of pollution-related penalties till April 1, providing temporary relief to vehicle owners across the state. Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhusan Jena has directed that no fines be imposed for the absence of a Pollution Under Control Certificate (PUCC) during this period.

As per the decision, pollution challans will not be issued through the e-detection system installed at toll gates until April 1. The minister has instructed transport authorities not to levy penalties on vehicles found without valid pollution certificates during this interim phase. The move comes amid concerns raised by vehicle owners regarding the availability and renewal of PUCCs.

The Transport...