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Himachal CM Sukhu to Restore Old Entry Fee System Amid Controversy

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has indicated the government may revert to the earlier system of collecting entry fees separately, moving away from the integrated FASTag system. He firmly denied implementing any hike in entry fees, alleging that confusion and dissatisfaction are being deliberately spread. The CM stated he attempted to contact the Punjab Chief Minister regarding the inter-state issue and has spoken to Punjab Congress leaders. His statements come amid ongoing tensions and protests from transporters, particularly in neighbouring Punjab.

Key Points: Himachal CM: No Fee Hike, Old Collection System May Return

  • May restore old separate fee collection system
  • Denies any hike in entry fees
  • Blames protests on misinformation
  • FASTag integration being reconsidered
  • Spoke to Punjab Congress leaders on issue
2 min read

Will restore previous system of entry fee collection, no hike imposed: Himachal CM Sukhu

Himachal CM Sukhvinder Sukhu says no entry fee hike was implemented, considers restoring the previous separate collection system amid protests.

"No hike has been implemented by the Himachal Pradesh government. Misinformation is being circulated. - CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu"

Shimla, March 31

The Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, on Tuesday indicated that the state government may restore the earlier system of collecting entry fee separately, amid the ongoing controversy over the issue.

Making a statement in the Assembly, the Chief Minister said that the government had earlier integrated multiple charges, including toll tax, with FASTag for convenience, but is now considering reverting to the previous system.

"We had combined various fees, including toll tax, with FASTag. Now, we are considering restoring the earlier system where fees were collected separately. A decision will be taken shortly," CM Sukhu said.

He asserted that no increase has been made in any category of entry fee and alleged that confusion and dissatisfaction are being deliberately spread over the issue.

"No hike has been implemented by the Himachal Pradesh government. Misinformation is being circulated regarding the toll tax and entry fee," he added.

Referring to the inter-state dimension of the issue, Sukhu said he had attempted to contact the Punjab Chief Minister but could not connect. "I tried calling the Punjab Chief Minister, but he did not pick up. However, I have spoken to Punjab Congress leaders Raja Warring and Partap Singh Bajwa on the matter," CM Sukhu asserted.

The Chief Minister's statement comes amid tensions and protests related to the entry fee, particularly from transporters and stakeholders in neighbouring Punjab.

Earlier today, Himacha CM said the state government is reviewing the recent increase in entry tax and will consider rationalisation to avoid any law and order situation, while defending the rollout of robotic surgery in public hospitals.

Speaking to the media in Shimla, Sukhu said protests over the entry tax hike were based on "misconceptions" and asserted that the levy is not new.

"Entry tax has existed earlier as well, including during the BJP government's tenure. We have only rationalised it. The perception that there has been a sharp increase is not correct," he said.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
This flip-flop on policy is not a good look for the government. First, they introduce something for "convenience," then roll it back after protests. It shows a lack of proper planning and consultation with stakeholders before implementation. 🤦‍♀️
A
Aman W
Good move by CM Sukhu. The confusion was unnecessary and was affecting tourism sentiment. Himachal depends on visitors from Punjab, Delhi, and Chandigarh. We need smooth entry, not disputes at the border. Clarifying no hike is also important.
S
Sarah B
Interesting to see the inter-state politics here. The CM saying he couldn't reach his Punjab counterpart... speaks volumes. These fees impact cross-border trade and travel so much. Hope they resolve it amicably for the people of both states.
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Vikram M
The government should stick to one system. This back and forth creates uncertainty. If the old system was working, why change it to FASTag in the first place? Now going back wastes time and resources. Proper impact studies should be done before such decisions.
K
Kavya N
As a frequent traveler to Himachal, I just want a transparent, hassle-free process. Whether it's separate or combined, just make it clear and easy to pay. The last thing anyone wants is a long argument at a toll booth when you're on holiday! 😅

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