Uttarakhand to introduce Green Cess on out-of-state vehicles to curb pollution

Uttarakhand is preparing to implement a green cess for vehicles entering the state that are not registered there. The move, expected to take effect by the end of December, is aimed at controlling pollution and generating revenue. According to officials, this charge will apply to both commercial and private vehicles, with rates ranging from ₹20 to ₹80 depending on the vehicle type.

However, some vehicles will be exempted, including two-wheelers, electric and CNG vehicles, those registered in Uttarakhand, and those engaged in essential services like ambulances and fire brigades. The green cess will be directly deducted from the FASTag wallets of vehicle owners through an automated system.

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Automated system and charges

The government has initiated the tendering process to set up the cess collection system, and it is expected to be operational by December. Joint Commissioner of Transport Sanat Kumar Singh explained that automatic number plate recognition cameras would identify vehicles from other states. The system will then automatically deduct the cess amount from the FASTag associated with the vehicle.

The charges will vary based on the vehicle category:

• Three-wheelers: ₹20
• Four-wheelers: ₹40
• Medium vehicles: ₹60
• Heavy vehicles: ₹80

This cess will apply to single-day entries, but vehicle owners can opt for longer-duration passes. For instance, a quarterly pass will cost 20 times the daily rate, while an annual pass will cost 60 times the daily rate.

High traffic in peak seasons

Uttarakhand experiences a significant influx of out-of-state vehicles throughout the year, especially during peak tourist and pilgrimage seasons. Popular destinations such as Haridwar, Rishikesh, Mussoorie, and Nainital attract a large number of visitors, contributing to increased vehicular traffic. This new green cess is expected to manage this flow and encourage the use of eco-friendly transportation options, thereby helping to protect the fragile environment of the hill state.