TNI Bureau: The Odisha government has clarified that affixing a green sticker on vehicles is not mandatory and vehicle owners need not pay any fee for it. The Transport Department said the green sticker is only an indicator and has been kept optional to avoid any additional burden on the public.

Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhusan Jena said rules that cause inconvenience to people will be simplified. He added that while it is advisable to provide the green sticker at the time of issuing the Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate, the government has deliberately kept it separate to ensure that citizens are not overburdened.

Transport Secretary Usha Padhee said green stickers will be available from November 10 at all Regional Transport Offices (RTOs) and authorised pollution testing centres. She reiterated that the sticker is not compulsory, though obtaining a valid PUC certificate remains mandatory.

The Transport Secretary encouraged vehicle owners to voluntarily display the green sticker as a matter of pride, indicating that their vehicle is pollution-free. Those who already have a valid PUC certificate can collect the sticker from RTO offices.

Officials clarified that the green sticker has no connection with the purchase of petrol and stressed that the government is focusing on creating awareness among citizens to follow pollution norms. The department also appealed to vehicle owners to act responsibly and fulfil their duties towards environmental protection.