Odisha Tightens Noose on Uninsured Vehicles, Automatic Checks to Begin at Toll Gates

Bhubaneswar/Cuttack: The Odisha government is set to step up action against vehicles operating without valid insurance, with Commerce and Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhusan Jena directing officials to intensify enforcement of motor vehicle regulations across the state.

According to government figures, Odisha currently has 1,01,41,951 registered vehicles. However, only 35,68,318 vehicles have valid insurance, while a staggering 65,73,633 vehicles are reportedly plying without valid insurance coverage.

As part of the intensified enforcement drive, vehicles crossing toll plazas will be subjected to automated verification of mandatory documents, including insurance, fitness certificates and pollution-under-control (PUC) certificates. The checks will be carried out through the e-detection system, officials said.

Vehicles detected without the required documents will be issued e-challans on the spot. Authorities have also warned that repeated violations could result in stringent action, including cancellation of vehicle registration and seizure of the vehicle.

The Transport Department has directed Regional Transport Offices (RTOs) to strengthen field-level enforcement while simultaneously conducting awareness campaigns to encourage vehicle owners to comply with the rules.

Minister Jena highlighted the importance of having valid motor insurance, particularly in cases involving road accidents. He said insurance coverage helps ensure compensation, wherever applicable, for accident victims and protects both vehicle owners and other road users from financial risks.

The department also referred to a recent observation by the Supreme Court regarding uninsured vehicles. The apex court suggested that vehicles without valid insurance should not be allowed to purchase petrol or diesel and asked the Centre to examine the possibility of introducing such a system initially on a pilot basis.

The Odisha Commerce and Transport Department has appealed to vehicle owners to check and renew their insurance, pollution certificates, fitness documents and other mandatory papers at the earliest to avoid penalties and further legal action.