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Tensions are mounting along the Punjab-Himachal Pradesh border as transporter unions and farmer organisations have announced an indefinite blockade from Saturday morning. The protest is aimed at opposing the recently imposed vehicle entry tax by Himachal Pradesh and is expected to severely disrupt movement along the vital Kiratpur Sahib-Manali National Highway.
According to a report in Indian Express, protest leaders have issued a stern warning, stating that the blockade will begin at 9 am on Saturday unless immediate action is taken. They have demanded that either the Punjab government introduce a reciprocal tax by Friday evening or the Himachal Pradesh government exempt vehicles from neighbouring Punjab districts – Rupnagar, Mohali, Hoshiarpur,
and Pathankot – from the levy.
Failure to meet these demands, they said, would result in a complete shutdown of highway traffic.
Protests Intensify Across Border Checkpoints
The agitation follows after escalating tensions at nearly 33 entry points along the interstate border. Protesters allege that excessive and unfair charges are being collected, leading to repeated confrontations and tense situations at toll plazas.
Traffic disruptions and clashes have already been reported in several areas, signalling a worsening situation.
Tax Hike Sparks Widespread Criticism
The IE report further states that the controversy stems from the Himachal Pradesh government’s decision to increase entry tax rates for vehicles entering the state from April 1. The move, introduced by the administration led by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, has drawn sharp criticism, particularly from neighbouring Punjab.
Transporters argue that the additional levy places an undue financial burden on those operating across state borders.
Earlier Protest Deferred After Assurances
An earlier call for an indefinite blockade on Wednesday was temporarily withdrawn after Himachal Pradesh officials assured protesters that discussions would be held within 10 days.
However, with no immediate resolution in sight, protest groups have revived their agitation, indicating growing frustration.
Leaders Push For Swift Resolution
Gaurav Rana, president of Punjab Morcha, said representatives from multiple organisations are now determined to resolve the issue without further delay.
On Thursday, protest leaders met Punjab minister Harjot Singh Bains in Sri Anandpur Sahib, urging the state government to intervene promptly. They pressed for either diplomatic engagement with Himachal Pradesh to revoke the tax or the imposition of a matching levy to protect Punjab-based transporters.
Reacting to the concerns, Bains described the entry tax as “unjustified” and assured that the Punjab government would safeguard the interests of its people. He indicated that a favourable decision would be taken soon.
Policy Changes And Revised Rates
Earlier developments added to the confusion. On February 16, a notification had proposed increasing the tax on small passenger vehicles from Rs 70 to Rs 170. Following backlash, the rate was revised to Rs 130.
Later, Chief Minister Sukhu told the Vidhan Sabha that the hike for certain passenger vehicles would be rolled back. However, a subsequent notification stated that toll charges had instead been reduced from Rs 130 to Rs 100 for public convenience.
The chief minister maintained that misinformation was being spread regarding the tax changes and emphasised that increases were minimal for most vehicle categories. He also announced relief measures, including passes for residents living within a 5-km radius of entry points.
Widespread Disruptions And Traffic Chaos
The impact of the protests has extended beyond the Punjab border, with demonstrations reported at multiple interstate points. Severe traffic congestion has been witnessed in areas such as Kalka-Pinjore, Madhawala-Barotiwala, Baddi, and Nalagarh.
The Ilaka Bachao Sangharsh Morcha also staged a protest at Mehtpur on the Himachal-Punjab border, while movement on the Dharamshala–Chandigarh highway was affected.
Several routes, including those connecting Una and Nangal via Santoshgarh, have been diverted. Traffic snarls have also been reported in Bathu-Bathri.
Escalating their stance, protest leaders warned that they may extend their agitation by calling for a boycott of Himachal Pradesh’s tourism season. They indicated plans to urge residents of Punjab and Haryana to avoid visiting the state.
Security Tightened Amid Rising Tensions
In response to the escalating situation, police forces have been deployed at key locations along the border. Authorities stated that efforts are underway to maintain law and order and prevent further disruption as tensions continue to build.
