Pollution testing: Govt introduces new measures to curb malpractice

Thiruvananthapuram: The Union government has introduced new measures to the regulations concerning Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificates for vehicles, including the elimination of live readings during tests.

Previously, some personnel manipulated the testing process by moving the nozzle when oxygen levels dipped, ensuring the vehicle would pass by maintaining airflow. Similarly, vehicle acceleration was adjusted to control emissions. These practices led to fraudulent test results.

Under the new regulations, the emission levels of each gas will be recorded in the final result. If any gas exceeds the prescribed levels, a failure certificate will be issued. These changes aim to reduce malpractice and ensure more accurate pollution testing.