In a major move to regulate the transport of natural resources and crack down on the mining mafia, the Haryana government has introduced a new tax framework for mineral-laden vehicles. Effective today, any truck carrying minor minerals (such as stone, sand, and gravel) into Haryana will have to pay a mandatory transit fee.
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Uniform Fee Structure: The government has set a uniform rate of ₹80 per metric tonne. Previously, vehicles faced a complex system where those destined for Haryana were charged ₹20, while those merely passing through paid ₹100. The new flat rate streamlines collection and prevents transporters from misreporting their destination to evade higher fees.
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Surveillance Technology: Revenue generated from this tax is earmarked for the “Mining Surveillance System.” This includes the installation of AI-powered CCTV cameras at 45 major entry points, automated gates, and a QR-code-based e-challan system to ensure that every truck has a valid permit.
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Revised Royalties: Alongside the transit fee, the cabinet has also revised the royalty rates for stone and boulders to ₹80 per metric tonne, ensuring a consistent pricing model for both locally mined and imported minerals.
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Impact on Construction: While the government anticipates a significant boost in state revenue and a reduction in illegal mineral theft, industry experts suggest that the uniform levy may lead to a marginal increase in the cost of construction materials like crushed stone and sand in the short term.
Official Statement: “Haryana is a transit hub for minerals coming from six neighboring states. By implementing this uniform ISTP fee, we are not only ensuring transparency but also building a digital fortress against illegal mining,” said a senior official from the Mines and Geology Department.
