Civic bodies barred from taxing heavy vehicles until rules are framed

A government order has prohibited municipal and other civic authorities from imposing any tax on heavy vehicles until a comprehensive rulebook is finalized. The directive applies uniformly across all local bodies, halting any new levy or collection related to trucks, buses and other high‑capacity transport.

The move comes as the regulatory framework for heavy‑vehicle taxation is still under preparation, leaving local bodies without a clear legal basis to charge owners. Officials say the suspension will prevent arbitrary fees and ensure that any future tax structure is consistent with national policy.

Authorities have indicated that once the rules are drafted and notified, civic bodies will resume tax collection in line with the new guidelines. No specific timeline has been disclosed, but the emphasis is on establishing a transparent and uniform system before any revenue is drawn.