Tricity tempo traveler union threatens strike over H.Ps amended entry tax
Shimla, Nov 1
The Tricity Tempo Traveler Union, a prominent stakeholder in the tourism sector, has raised their voice against the Himachal Pradesh government’s recent decision to impose revised entry taxes on 04 to 26 seater tempo passengers from other states. In a media note they have stated that <span;>if their plea is not heard and the tax is not withdrawn, they will be forced to initiate a strike after 15 days,
This move, which came into effect on September 1, 2023, levies a daily tax ranging from Rs 500 to Rs 1500, depending on the seating capacity.
As per the union currently <span;>Rs 500 per day will be charged from vehicles with seating capacity of five to 10 persons, Rs 750 per day from vehicles with seating capacity of 10 to 22 persons and Rs 1500 per day will be charged from vehicles with seating capacity of more than 23 persons. Taxis with seating capacity of less than five seats will now have to pay Rs 200 per day.
The tempo travellers union has expressed deep concerns about the financial strain imposed by the double taxation. General Secretary Ashok Punj and President Joginder Singh issued a strong statement, stating that they are unable to meet the EMI payments for their tempo travelers, and the additional tax is adversely affecting the tourism sector in Himachal Pradesh.
The Union, comprising over 2,00,000 tempo travelers and more than 10,00,00 taxi drivers, along with various associations and unions, is seeking the intervention of Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu to reconsider this decision. They also argue that implementation of special tax does not fall under the right of the State government. They argue that the new tax is dissuading tourists from visiting Himachal, thereby causing further economic distress.
In the final appeal, the Tricity Tempo Traveler Union has warned that this could have severe repercussions on the tourism industry of Himachal Pradesh.
Noteworthy that previously the Shimla Stakeholder association has also raised concerns about the tax and had met the Chief Minister in the matter. CM Sukhu had assured that taxe would be reduced.
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