Congestion tax in Delhi?

In a bid to ease Delhi's nightmare traffic, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi and state government are considering imposing a 'congestion tax' on motorists for entry to several crowded parts of the city.

In a bid to ease Delhi's nightmare traffic, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi and state government are considering imposing a 'congestion tax' on motorists for entry to several crowded parts of the city.

HT Image

Sources said the charge could be between Rs 50 and Rs 100, levied during peak hours.

A similar practice exists in London and Singapore.

The MCD is preparing a detailed report. A resolution will be passed and sent to the government for final clearance.

"We have to work out the timings when this tax will be applicable," said a government official.

"According to the plan, cameras will be installed at entry points to capture number plates and the tax amount will be deduced when driving licences go for renewal. Another option is to install boom barriers and station people at entry points to collect the tax on the spot," said a senior MCD official.

To begin with, areas such as Chandni Chowk, Lajpat Nagar's Central Market, GK-I, Saket and Karol Bagh are being considered.

Sources said the government is also thinking about charging congestion tax on vehicles entering the city, which can be collected at the toll plazas.

Delhi has 70 lakh vehicles and on an average, 1,300 more are added to its roads every day.