In a move to control pollution and promote environmental sustainability, the Uttarakhand government has decided to impose a green tax on all vehicles entering the state from outside. The tax collection will officially begin in December 2025, marking a significant step toward cleaner transportation and ecological balance in the hill state.
Officials said the initiative aims to protect the fragile mountain ecosystem, which has been increasingly strained by vehicular emissions, especially during tourist seasons.
Category-Wise Tax Structure Announced
The state has fixed different rates for various types of vehicles entering from other states.
- Small vehicles: ₹80
- Small cargo vehicles: ₹250
- Buses: ₹140
- Trucks: ₹120–₹700 (depending on weight)
This differentiated pricing ensures that heavier, more polluting vehicles contribute proportionally to the environmental maintenance of the region.
Smart Tech for Seamless Tax Collection
To ensure transparency and automation, the Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) system will be deployed at all major entry points.
According to State Additional Transport Commissioner Sanat Kumar Singh, the number of cameras has been increased from 16 to 37 along the state’s borders.
These cameras will capture the registration numbers of incoming vehicles and send the data to the appointed vendor company, which will coordinate with the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) for automatic deductions.
Vehicle owners’ wallet numbers will be matched, and the applicable tax amount will be directly debited from their accounts to the transport department, ensuring hassle-free and paperless payment.
Digital Green Tax: A Model For Other States?
By integrating technology and environmental accountability, Uttarakhand’s new green tax system could become a model for other Indian states. With this initiative, the state hopes to balance tourism growth with ecological preservation — setting the tone for responsible and sustainable travel in the Himalayan region.
