A major controversy has erupted in Himachal Pradesh over the entry tax issue, triggering protests in Punjab areas adjoining the state border and leading to temporary blockades of key national highways on Wednesday.
During the protests, agitators created disruptions on the Chandigarh–Manali, Kalka–Shimla, and Chandigarh–Dharamshala National Highways, causing significant inconvenience to commuters and transport services. The issue has placed the Sukhu-led Himachal Pradesh government under political pressure.
Addressing the matter in Shimla, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said the protests in border areas were “unjustified” and maintained that the government had not taken any wrong decision. Emphasizing cordial ties, he stated, “Punjab is our brother,” and added that he would again speak with Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann to resolve the confusion.
The Chief Minister clarified that misunderstandings existed only in two regions and explained that revised rates had actually reduced the fee for six-seater vehicles from ₹130 to ₹100. However, the toll fee for five-seater buses, previously ₹70, has been increased to ₹100.
Sukhu announced that the government would soon issue an official notification to remove confusion surrounding the revised charges. He also pointed out that Himachal buses are charged nearly ₹3,000 when entering Punjab and Haryana, yet Himachal Pradesh has not raised objections.
Notably, smaller commercial vehicles such as pickup trucks were earlier exempt from toll charges at entry barriers. Under the revised system, a direct charge of ₹170 has been introduced, which has become a major point of concern among drivers.
At the Parwanoo barrier, one driver claimed he had not paid any tax for five years as a local resident but is now being directly charged ₹170, highlighting growing dissatisfaction among commuters and transport operators.
Authorities are monitoring the situation closely as discussions continue to ease tensions and restore smooth traffic movement across the border regions.
