Himachal Pradesh government revises entry tax under Toll Policy 2026–27 effective from April 1
New Delhi: The Himachal Pradesh government has increased the entry tax for vehicles coming from other states. The new rates will start from April 1, 2026. The government issued this notification under the Himachal Pradesh Toll Act, 1975 as part of its Toll Policy for the financial year 2026–27.
The hike is quite large for many types of vehicles. In some cases, the increase is more expensive compared to the earlier rates. However, the government has not changed the charges for double-axle buses and trucks.
Private Vehicles to Pay More
Private cars, jeeps, SUVs and other light motor vehicles registered outside Himachal Pradesh will now pay ₹170 as a 24-hour entry fee. Earlier, these vehicles paid around ₹70.
Passenger vehicles with a 12+1 seating capacity will also pay ₹170. Previously, they paid around ₹110.
Big Increase for Buses and Commercial Vehicles
The government has almost doubled the charges for many commercial vehicles.
- Mini buses with up to 32 seats will now pay ₹320 instead of about ₹180.
- Commercial buses will pay ₹600 instead of around ₹320 earlier.
- Large goods vehicles will pay ₹900 instead of about ₹720.
- Construction machines like JCBs and earthmovers will now pay ₹800, compared to ₹570 earlier.
- Tractors will pay ₹100 instead of ₹70.
However, the government has kept the entry fee for double-axle buses and trucks the same at ₹570.
Only for Out-of-State Vehicles
The state collects this 24-hour entry tax at different toll barriers. The tax applies only to vehicles registered outside Himachal Pradesh. Vehicles registered within the state do not have to pay this entry tax.
Most of these vehicles enter Himachal from neighbouring states such as Punjab, Haryana, Delhi and Uttar Pradesh.
Reason Behind the Decision
The state government has increased the entry tax to improve its income. Himachal Pradesh is facing financial pressure because the Revenue Deficit Grant has been stopped and GST compensation from the Centre has reduced.
To manage the situation, the government is trying to increase revenue through toll tax, excise duties, mining income, earnings from the power sector and transport-related charges.
Officials say this step will help the state strengthen its finances without putting extra burden on people living in Himachal Pradesh.
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Digital and Modern Toll System
Under the Toll Policy 2026–27, the government plans to modernize the toll system. It will introduce FASTag-based digital payments at major toll barriers.
The state will also start e-auctioning toll barriers, install CCTV cameras and use digital tracking systems to make collections more transparent and reduce revenue losses.
Possible Impact
The decision has received mixed reactions.
People from the tourism sector worry that higher entry charges for private vehicles may reduce the number of tourists, especially during peak seasons. Tourism is very important for Himachal Pradesh’s economy.
Transporters are concerned that higher toll charges will increase transportation costs. They may increase freight rates, which could raise the prices of goods.
People living near interstate borders, who travel frequently between Himachal and neighbouring states, have also expressed concerns about the extra cost.
Where the Tax Will Be Collected
The government will collect the revised entry tax at major toll barriers, including:
- Parwanoo (NH-5)
- Baddi
- Mahatpur
- Kandwal
- Garamaura
- Govindghat
These locations are important entry points connecting Himachal Pradesh with nearby states.
Effective from April 1, 2026
The new entry tax rates will apply from April 1, 2026. With this move, the Himachal Pradesh government aims to increase revenue, improve the toll collection system and strengthen its financial position.
This is one of the biggest entry tax increases in recent years and will directly affect out-of-state vehicle owners, transport operators and tourists visiting the state.
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