Himachal Pradesh to hike entry toll tax for out-of-state vehicles

The Himachal Pradesh government, led by Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, has notified a significant hike in entry toll taxes for vehicles entering the state, effective from the next fiscal year. The revised policy primarily targets out-of-state and non-HP registered vehicles to address the state's fiscal pressures and mounting liabilities, including salary arrears and pensions. Under the new rates, light motor vehicles such as cars and jeeps will see fees rise from Rs 70 to Rs 170, while heavy goods vehicles will pay Rs 900 instead of Rs 720. The hike for private vehicles exceeds 100%, sparking concerns within the tourism industry regarding its impact on the upcoming peak summer season. While local residents may receive some respite, visitors from neighbouring states face a steeper financial burden at entry barriers. The government maintains that the restructuring is a fiscal necessity for revenue mobilisation, though the decision has drawn criticism from neighbouring regions for being burdensome to travellers.