The Himachal Pradesh Government has taken a crucial step in granting exemptions in special road tax for vehicles entering the state from other regions. This step addresses the concerns of the state’s tourism industry, alleviating the impact of the increased road taxes.
Now, this decision is also expected to ensure a hassle-free travel experience for tourists and promote a smoother tourism season within the state.
Stakeholders and the public have been given a seven-day period to provide objections or suggestions regarding the new rates. If no significant objections or suggestions are received within the timeframe, the notification will be implemented as planned.
Under the new road tax structure, different rates have been set for vehicles based on their service categories. The general service stage vehicles will be charged 10 paise per seat per km, 13 paise per seat per km for express or night service, 15 paise per seat per km for semi-deluxe service, and AC service vehicles will have to pay 35 paise per seat per km.
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Moreover, rates for private vehicles coming to Himachal from other states have been fixed. Vehicles with less than 10 seats have to pay ₹7,000 per seat per year, ₹8,000 per seat per year for ones less than 23 seats, while those with 23 or more seats will be charged ₹9,000 per seat per year.
Also, to support the transportation of goods, a separate tax structure has been established for goods vehicles based on their tire count and load weight.
For state-registered heavy goods vehicles carrying more than 120 quintals of load with 10 to 18 tires, a tax of ₹15,000 per year will be imposed. Similarly, a road tax of ₹10,000 per year will be levied on vehicles with six tires weighing between 30 and 120 quintals.
The Himachal Pradesh government’s decision to grant these exemptions in special road tax showcases their commitment to facilitate tourism and boost the industry.