The Uttarakhand government is set to implement a green cess on vehicles entering the state, aiming to promote environmental conservation and sustainable tourism. This initiative will affect both private and commercial vehicles from outside Uttarakhand, with specific exemptions and a structured fee system.
Key Details of the Green Cess Implementation
Applicability and Exemptions
- Affected Vehicles: All out-of-state private and commercial vehicles, including three-wheelers, four-wheelers, medium, and heavy vehicles.
- Exemptions: Two-wheelers, electric vehicles (EVs), CNG vehicles, vehicles registered within Uttarakhand, and those engaged in essential services such as ambulances and fire brigades.
Fee Structure
- Three-Wheelers: ₹20 per entry
- Four-Wheelers: ₹40 per entry
- Medium Vehicles: ₹60 per entry
- Heavy Vehicles: ₹80 per entry
Vehicle owners have the option to purchase extended validity passes:
- Quarterly Pass: 20 times the daily rate
- Annual Pass: 60 times the daily rate
Implementation Mechanism
The cess will be collected through an automated system utilizing Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras to identify non-Uttarakhand registered vehicles. The corresponding amount will be directly deducted from the vehicle owner’s FASTag account, ensuring a seamless and efficient process.
Timeline
The tendering process for implementing the green cess system is underway, with the target to operationalize it by the end of December 2024.
Purpose and Impact
This green cess aims to mitigate environmental degradation caused by vehicular emissions and to encourage the use of eco-friendly transportation options. By imposing this fee, the Uttarakhand government seeks to promote sustainable tourism and reduce the carbon footprint within the state.
Travelers planning to visit Uttarakhand should be aware of these new charges and consider utilizing exempted vehicle types, such as electric or CNG vehicles, to contribute to environmental conservation efforts.
For more information and updates, visitors can refer to the State Transport Department, Government of Uttarakhand.
