Pollution is a major concern in India and it is the responsibility of each individual to ensure that their vehicles do not contribute to the increasing pollution levels. In order to ensure this, the Indian government has made it mandatory for all vehicles to obtain a pollution certificate. The certificate is issued by authorized PUC (Pollution Under Control) centers and certifies that a vehicle’s emissions are within the permissible limits as set by the Indian Motor Vehicles Act.
In this article, we will take a look at the process of obtaining a pollution certificate in India, including more details about the process in the state of Assam.
Step 1: Locate an authorized PUC center The first step in obtaining a pollution certificate is to locate an authorized PUC center near you. These centers are recognized by the government and have the necessary equipment to measure a vehicle’s emissions. A list of authorized PUC centers can be obtained from the official website of the state transport department. In Assam, you can find a list of authorized PUC centers on the official website of the Assam State Transport Department (www.astc.assam.gov.in).
Step 2: Take your vehicle for emission testing Once you have located an authorized PUC center, take your vehicle to the center for emission testing. The center will check the vehicle’s emissions and issue a pollution certificate if the emissions are within the permissible limits. In Assam, the emission testing process involves measuring the levels of carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and nitrogen oxides in the vehicle’s exhaust. The vehicle must pass these tests in order to receive a pollution certificate.
Step 3: Obtain the pollution certificate If the emissions from your vehicle are within the permissible limits, the center will issue a pollution certificate. The certificate is valid for a period of one year and must be renewed annually. It is important to keep the certificate with you while driving the vehicle as it may be checked by traffic police during routine checks. In Assam, the pollution certificate is issued in the form of a sticker which must be affixed to the vehicle’s windscreen.
Step 4: Check the status of your vehicle’s pollution certificate You can also check the status of your vehicle’s pollution certificate through the Vahan and Parivahan portal (https://vahan.parivahan.gov.in). The portal provides information on the status of your vehicle’s pollution certificate and other related details. In Assam, you can use the portal to check the status of your vehicle’s pollution certificate and ensure that it is up to date.
Penalties for not having a valid pollution certificate If you are found driving a vehicle without a valid pollution certificate, you may be issued a challan (fine) by the traffic police. The amount of the fine varies from state to state, but it can be substantial. Additionally, driving a vehicle without a valid pollution certificate can result in your vehicle being impounded. In Assam, the fine for driving a vehicle without a valid pollution certificate is Rs. 1000.
In conclusion, obtaining a pollution certificate is a simple process that can be done by visiting an authorized PUC center. It is important to ensure that your vehicle’s emissions are within the permissible limits to contribute to a cleaner environment. The certificate is valid for a period of one year and must be renewed annually to ensure that your vehicle continues to be in compliance with the Indian Motor Vehicles Act. By taking this simple step, you can do your part in reducing pollution and contribute to a cleaner environment.