Delhi Government Issues Stern Warning to PUC Centres Over Video Upload Compliance
The Delhi Transport department has issued a strict directive to all Pollution Under Control (PUC) centres in the capital, mandating the upload of clear and comprehensive video clips during vehicle emission testing. This move comes as part of intensified efforts to combat air pollution in the city, with officials emphasizing that non-compliance will result in severe consequences.
Clear Video Requirements for Emission Testing
According to the recent order, PUC centres must capture and upload videos that clearly show the physical presence of the vehicle being tested, its number plate, and the surrounding premises. The department noted that many centres have been submitting unclear clips that violate established norms, undermining the integrity of the pollution control process.
All 919 authorized PUC centres in Delhi are required to upload these short clips to the PUCC Software Version 2.0, a web-enabled, AI-based platform developed by the National Informatics Centre (NIC). This software represents a significant modernization of India's pollution under control certificate issuance system, designed to enhance transparency and accuracy.
Strict Action Against Non-Compliance
The Transport department's order explicitly states, "Non-compliance with the above instructions shall be viewed seriously, and strict action will be initiated against the defaulting PUC Centres." This warning follows routine inspections that revealed numerous centres failing to upload videos in the prescribed format on the VAHAN portal.
A senior Transport department official explained that vehicle emissions remain one of the top contributors to Delhi's foul air, making proper monitoring essential. The latest initiative aims to ensure the department can effectively track and oversee the PUCC exercise, maintaining rigorous standards across all testing facilities.
Broader Pollution Control Measures
This video upload requirement is part of a comprehensive strategy to improve air quality in Delhi. Last month, the government directed all petrol pumps to provide fuel only to vehicles presenting valid PUCCs. Data from January shows that 12,387 vehicle defaulters have already been identified, highlighting the scale of the enforcement challenge.
Pollution Under Control Certificates are mandatory documents that verify a vehicle's emissions fall within prescribed limits. These certificates typically cost between Rs 60 and Rs 100, while failing to possess one can result in a hefty fine of Rs 10,000. Vehicles must undergo regular checks at authorized centres located in regional transport offices, DTC depots, and petrol pumps.
Vehicle Emissions' Significant Impact on Delhi's Air Quality
Research underscores the critical role of vehicle emissions in Delhi's pollution crisis. A comprehensive 2015 study by IIT Kanpur on air pollution and greenhouse gases revealed that vehicles contribute approximately:
- 19.7% of PM10 and 25.1% of PM2.5 during winter months
- 6.4% to PM10 and 8.5% to PM2.5 during summer months
Furthermore, based on annual emissions data, vehicles account for about 18% of CH4 emissions, 92% of N2O emissions, and 30% of CO2 emissions in the city. They also rank among the top four contributors to CO2e emissions, with a substantial 32% share annually.
The Delhi government's latest directive represents a proactive step toward leveraging technology for environmental protection. By ensuring clear video documentation of emission tests, authorities aim to enhance accountability, reduce fraudulent practices, and ultimately contribute to cleaner air for Delhi's residents.
