The Bihar Transport Department has set up new pollution testing centres (PUCs) in 46 blocks across the state as part of its incentive scheme to ensure such facilities in every block. Officials said that 132 blocks previously lacked PUC centres, and grants totalling Rs 1.05 crore have been disbursed so far to support the establishment of the new facilities.

Bhabua has received the highest number of new centres with five, followed by Banka and Madhubani with four each. Three centres each have been opened in Darbhanga, Gaya, Jehanabad and Katihar, while Madhepura, Nalanda, Nawada, Rohtas, Saharsa, Sheikhpura and Siwan have added two each. One centre has been set up in Samastipur, Muzaffarpur, Munger, Chhapra and Arwal.

Currently, 1,553 PUCs are operational across the state, with Patna leading at 264 centres, followed by Muzaffarpur (81), Gaya (76), Vaishali (74), Chhapra (66) and Samastipur (62). These centres handle the highest volume of vehicle pollution tests.

Under the scheme, the government offers a 50 per cent subsidy — up to Rs 3 lakh — on the purchase of pollution testing equipment, creating new employment opportunities at the block level.