The Uttarakhand government is set to implement a system for collecting a ‘green cess’ from private vehicles entering the state from outside as soon as possible. This initiative aims to promote environmental protection and generate additional resources for road safety activities. Following Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami’s expression of displeasure over the delay in implementing the scheme, the transport department has expedited the process and developed the necessary software, which is currently undergoing testing.
Private Vehicles Also Included in Green Cess
Until now, only commercial vehicles entering Uttarakhand from other states were subject to the green cess. However, under the new system, private vehicles will also be included. The revenue generated from this cess will be used for road safety measures and tree plantation drives. The transport department has partnered with a private agency for the operation of this system.
Collection via ANPR Cameras and FASTag
Vehicles entering the state will be identified through 15 Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras installed at the state borders. These cameras will read the vehicle registration numbers to determine if the vehicle is from outside the state. The green cess amount will then be automatically deducted from the vehicle’s FASTag account, similar to toll tax collection. This cess will be valid for 24 hours.
Vehicles Exempted from the Cess
The transport department has proposed exemptions from the green cess for certain categories of vehicles. These include two-wheelers and three-wheelers, electric and CNG-powered vehicles. Government vehicles, fire brigade, and ambulance services will also be exempt from this cess to ensure that essential and emergency services are not affected.
Fee Rates and Pass Facility
Under the new system, light motor vehicles, such as cars and light commercial vehicles, will be charged a green cess of Rs 80. Buses with more than 12 seats will be charged Rs 140, and heavy vehicles with seven axles will be charged Rs 700. This fee will be valid for 24 hours.
To facilitate vehicles that frequently visit Uttarakhand, the department has also introduced a pass system. If a vehicle pays a lump sum equivalent to 20 days’ worth of the cess, it will receive a pass valid for three months. Similarly, paying an amount equivalent to 60 days’ worth of the cess will grant exemption from the green cess for an entire year.
With this new system, the government hopes to strengthen environmental protection efforts and ensure better monitoring of vehicles entering the state.
