GG News Bureau
Kolkata, 25th Nov. The West Bengal government has incurred a loss of approximately Rs 80 crore, as around 30 percent of private car owners have failed to pay their road taxes, according to state Transport Minister Snehasis Chakraborty.
In the state, car owners are required to pay a road tax for five years during the time of purchase and every five years thereafter. Alternatively, they can pay a one-time road tax for 15 years. However, Chakraborty stated that a significant number of owners, including those of high-end vehicles, neglect to pay the tax after the initial five-year period.
While some non-payments may be intentional, the minister suggested that many defaulters might simply overlook the reminders or forget to pay. “It could be a case of oversight or they might not check the messages sent to their mobiles. When such cars are stopped by the police, owners often pay the amount quickly to avoid inconvenience,” he explained.
The transport department is exploring ways to remind car owners about unpaid taxes in a more polite yet effective manner. Chakraborty also encouraged car dealers to suggest the 15-year tax payment option to customers, noting that while the upfront cost is higher, it would save owners from future hassles.
He added that in cases of mounting dues, the department sometimes impounds vehicles but ensures that the owners are transported to their destination in another vehicle. The department is seeking cooperation from defaulters to reduce the losses.
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