Guwahati: The Assam government will introduce a Green Cess on the transfer of ownership of older vehicles to discourage the use of more polluting vehicles and support environmental initiatives across the state.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced the proposed measure on social media platform X, stating that the revenue generated from the levy would be used to fund the state’s greening initiatives.
The move forms part of the government’s efforts to promote environmental sustainability and encourage vehicle owners to switch to newer, less polluting alternatives.
However, the proposed cess will not apply to all vehicles. Two-wheelers, three-wheelers, electric vehicles (EVs) and compressed natural gas (CNG)-powered vehicles will be exempt from the levy.
The chief minister’s announcement did not specify the rate of the Green Cess, the minimum vehicle age for coverage or the date on which the measure will take effect.
Further details are awaited as the government clarifies the implementation of the proposed levy.