Shimla, March 31: Policy reversal, the Himachal Pradesh government has rolled back a planned increase in vehicle entry taxes that had sparked widespread protests in border regions. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu confirmed on Tuesday that the state would abandon the proposed 130 rupee fee for small and medium-sized vehicles, returning instead to the long-standing tiered pricing system.
The rollback ensures that five-seater cars will continue to pay 70 rupees, and vehicles carrying between six and 12 passengers will be charged 110 rupees. The move is expected to de-escalate tensions that had been building since the new rates were initially announced for an April 1 implementation.
While announcing the reversal, the Chief Minister maintained that the proposed changes had been misunderstood by the public.
“Confusion over the issue was being deliberately spread,” Sukhu affirmed.
To further address the grievances of those living near the state’s entry points, the government declared a new pass system. Residents living within five kilometers of any toll plaza will be eligible for these passes to ensure their daily travel remains uninterrupted.
Government officials stated that the decision reflects the administration’s commitment to maintaining harmony in border areas while ensuring that revenue policies do not adversely affect local populations. Authorities asserted that the special passes will be processed through local administration offices starting immediately.
