PUC 2.0: New Online Video-Based System to Curb Illegal Practices 

Gandhinagar : The Ministries of Road Transport and Highways have implemented an updated version of the Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate system, known as PUC 2.0. This new system aims to enhance the accuracy and authenticity of PUC certificates by incorporating advanced technology. A successful trial of PUC 2.0 was recently conducted at Gandhinagar by the Transport Office, setting the stage for its statewide implementation.

Previously, PUC certificates were issued based on still photographs taken by software. However, this method was susceptible to manipulation and illegal activities. To address these concerns, PUC 2.0 integrates the PUC application with vehicle software, ensuring that certificates can only be obtained after uploading both online videos and photos. This measure significantly reduces the possibility of fraud and enhances the reliability of the pollution control process.

During the trial phase, officials from the head office tested the new application at private centers in Gandhinagar. The results were promising, demonstrating the system’s effectiveness in preventing center owners from issuing PUCs based solely on vehicle photos. Gandhinagar district, with over 50 PUC centers, will be the first to fully adopt this new technology. The online video-based system will ensure that vehicle owners must visit PUC centers in person, where live videos and photos will be captured, clearly showing the vehicle, center board, and location.

This updated system is expected to significantly reduce illegal PUC issuance. It is estimated that over 60 percent of fraudulent dismissals will be eliminated with PUC 2.0. Additionally, center owners will be required to provide calibration certificates every three months, further ensuring compliance and accuracy.

The pilot implementation in Gandhinagar involved manually checking vehicles by inspectors, followed by linking and uploading photos to the system. With PUC 2.0, this process will be streamlined and digitized, making it more efficient and less prone to human error.

The new system also stipulates that PUC certificates can only be removed using the registered vehicle number. This added layer of verification ensures that only authorized vehicles receive valid PUC certificates, further curbing illegal practices.