Himachal Pradesh High Court Proposes Green Tax for Tourists to Preserve Natural Landscape

Shimla, July 25, 2024 – In a bid to preserve the natural landscape and promote sustainable tourism, the Himachal Pradesh High Court has suggested implementing a green tax on tourists, similar to measures in Sikkim and Bhutan. The court’s directive aims to maintain the state’s cleanliness and make the region plastic-free.

Court Directives: Justices Tarlok Singh Chauhan and Sushil Kukreja directed the state government to ensure tourists carry plastic bags in their vehicles to collect their waste. The court has mandated the implementation of several measures to protect the environment:

• Green Tax Collection: Tourists will be required to pay a green tax upon entering the state, similar to systems in place in Sikkim and Bhutan.
• Plastic-Free Initiative: Tourists must carry plastic bags in their vehicles for waste collection to minimize littering.
• Waste Management: The court had previously ordered the Shimla Municipal Corporation to take strict measures to eliminate solid waste. A complaint number (+91-9805201916) was set up for citizens to report waste-related issues, and the court instructed that complaints should be displayed until resolved.

Special Task Force and Compliance: The state government has been ordered to form a special task force by the next hearing on August 1. Additionally, the Lahaul-Spiti deputy commissioner is required to file an affidavit regarding the green tax collected from tourists and its utilization.

Monitoring and Fines: To further safeguard the environment, the court directed the state government to register plastic companies from outside states to monitor the influx of plastic and impose heavy fines on those bringing plastic illegally into Himachal Pradesh.

Promoting Sustainable Tourism: The court’s orders aim to protect Himachal Pradesh’s environment and promote sustainable tourism practices. By introducing a green tax and implementing stringent waste management measures, the state hopes to preserve its natural beauty for future generations.

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