Himachal Proposes Annual Tax on Cash Vans and ‘Food on Wheels’ Vehicles, Public Feedback Invited

The Himachal Pradesh government is considering a new annual tax on cash vans and mobile canteens, popularly known as ‘Food on Wheels’, as part of proposed changes to the state’s Motor Vehicles Taxation Act, 1972.

The proposal has been included in a draft amendment issued by the Transport Department and is currently open for public consultation. If implemented, the annual tax will vary according to the category of vehicle. Light commercial vehicles may be required to pay between ₹12,000 and ₹15,000 annually, while the proposed tax for medium commercial vehicles is ₹20,000 and for heavy commercial vehicles ₹30,000.

The draft also states that the tax would apply not only to eligible vehicles registered in Himachal Pradesh but also to similar vehicles registered in other states that operate within Himachal’s boundaries.

The proposed amendment has been published in the e-Gazette following orders issued by Additional Chief Secretary (Transport) Omkar Chand Sharma. The government has invited suggestions and objections from stakeholders and members of the public over the next 30 days.

Following the consultation process, the feedback received will be reviewed before any final decision is taken. The exact tax rates and implementation timeline will become clear only after the government issues a final notification on the matter.

The move reflects the state’s efforts to review and update its vehicle taxation framework, while allowing stakeholders an opportunity to voice their concerns and recommendations before the proposal is finalised.