New Environmental Charge for Out-of-State Vehicles
The Uttarakhand government is set to enforce a green tax on vehicles coming from outside the state. This initiative is designed to encourage eco-friendly transportation and reduce pollution, while electric and CNG vehicles will be exempt.
Important Details About the Green Tax
- Tax Amount: Charges will vary between ₹20 and ₹80, depending on the vehicle type.
- Exemptions: Electric cars, CNG vehicles, two-wheelers, emergency services (ambulances, fire trucks) will not be taxed.
- Automatic Payment System: ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition) cameras will track non-local vehicles, and the fee will be deducted directly from the FASTag balance.
Green Tax Rates Based on Vehicle Type
- Three-wheelers: ₹20
- Four-wheelers: ₹40
- Medium-sized vehicles: ₹60
- Heavy vehicles: ₹80
Long-Term Passes for Vehicle Owners
For frequent travelers, extended pass options include:
- Quarterly Pass: 20 times the daily fee
- Annual Pass: 60 times the daily fee
Implementation Timeline
According to Joint Commissioner (Transport) Sanat Kumar Singh, the system setup is underway, and the tax collection process is expected to begin by the end of December.
This green tax policy aligns with Uttarakhand’s environmental conservation goals, aiming to limit vehicular emissions and protect the state’s fragile ecosystem.