KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- PUC certificate issuing guidelines changed
- Video verification now mandatory
- A move to curb fraudulent activities
In a significant move, the Indian Government has introduced video verification for the emission testing process across the country. This step is designed to bolster transparency and curb fraudulent activities at PUC (Pollution Under Control) centers. The incorporation of video verification seeks to guarantee the accuracy of emissions data on PUC certificates, fostering adherence to standards and facilitating robust enforcement against vehicles that fail to meet emission requirements. But before we take a look at the details in this section, make sure you join our Whatsapp Group Community of petrolheads to find out more exciting stuff about the Auto world.
PUC Certificate New Guidelines
The prevalence of inaccurate emission data on PUC certificates has been a widespread issue in India. Many owners of older and more polluting vehicles obtain PUC certificates that significantly deviate from the actual emission levels. This manipulation often occurs at authorized PUC centers, where emission values tested may belong to an entirely different vehicle.
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Such malpractices allow unfit vehicles to falsely meet emission standards and continue operation on public roads. In response, the Indian Government has taken a decisive step by enforcing video verification at authorized PUC centers for both two-wheelers and four-wheelers. The National Informatics Center (NIC) has been entrusted with the implementation of these measures, marking a significant reform in the enforcement of vehicular emission control regulations. The PUC certificate, which signifies compliance with rigorous exhaust gas testing and Motor Vehicles Act regulations, will now require recorded evidence of the entire testing process uploaded to the VAHAN portal managed by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. This shift from the previous practice of solely uploading the vehicle's number plate aims to enhance the authenticity and integrity of the emission testing process.
Applicable To Both 2 And 4 Wheelers
The National Informatics Center (NIC) will introduce necessary modifications to the VAHAN portal, enabling PUC center operators to upload videos of the vehicle testing process. This modification aims to bring about a substantial increase in transparency and legitimacy throughout the emission testing procedure. With this new regulation, the issuance of fraudulent PUCs for vehicles with significant emissions is expected to be curtailed. The swift adoption and implementation of these regulations by various state and union territory governments are expected following the mandate. Despite these changes, there is no indication of any adjustments to the nominal price of a PUC certificate and associated testing. The validity of the PUC certificate remains at six months, during which the vehicle must undergo re-testing to obtain a renewed PUC.
Verdict
The video verification is one of the major steps taken by the government to curb shady activities. Not only will this help in contaioning such practises, it is neccessary for the environment as vehicles polluting more than the acceptable limits will be barred from obtaining fitness certifications.
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