Shimla:
Karan Nanda, BJP State Media Coordinator, strongly criticised the new entry fee and FASTag-based collection system set to be implemented by the state government from April 1, 2026, terming it an anti-tourism and inflation-inducing move.
He said that increasing the entry fee for private vehicles from other states from ₹70 to ₹130 and imposing a fee of up to ₹170 on small cargo vehicles reflects the government’s intent to generate revenue by placing an additional financial burden on the public.
Nanda added that bringing the state’s own freight vehicles under the tax net would adversely affect the local trade and transportation sector. He warned that the steep hike in taxes on large freight vehicles, construction machinery, minibuses, and commercial vehicles would lead to an increase in the cost of goods, ultimately impacting the common man through inflation.
He further alleged that the government, while promoting the slogan of a self-reliant Himachal, is introducing policies that could negatively affect industry, tourism, and transportation sectors.
He stated that the target of collecting ₹185 crore in revenue from 55 toll barriers indicates that the government’s focus is on maximising revenue rather than ensuring public convenience. He cautioned that if the decision is not rolled back, it could severely impact the state’s economy, tourist inflow, and employment opportunities.
Nanda also said that the BJP will continue to raise its voice in the interest of the people and urged the government to reconsider the decision, stating that the public would respond to anti-people policies at the appropriate time.
