Bhubaneswar, Dec. 25 -- Despite the extension of the Pollution Under Control Certificate (PUCC) validity by one month, long queues continued to be seen across several cities in Odisha, including on Thursday, on Christmas. Vehicle owners were found lining up with their bikes and scooters at pollution testing centres, waiting to obtain or renew their PUCC.

In Berhampur, residents gathered in considerable numbers at pollution testing centres, reflecting continued pressure on the system even after the grace period announcement. Many locals said the extension was a welcome step, but the sudden implementation created confusion and inconvenience for vehicle owners.

A worker at a mobile pollution testing centre said the footfall increased sharp...