Accord on national permit scheme

The Union Government and AIMTC signed an agreement in January last to formulate a new national permit system. The Government constituted a committee for the purpose which, in its report, recommended fixation of a composite fee of Rs. 15,000 per annum per vehicle.

The vehicle plying on national permit would be authorized for operation throughout the country. The level of composite fee would be reviewed after one year. In case there is any shortfall vis-a-vis the revenue earned by the States, keeping in view the accruals on account of composite fee in 2008-09, the fee would be increased to the desired level.

AIMTC agreed to compensate the revenue loss and pay the enhanced fees. In case there is surplus fund, the same may be utilised for undertaking road safety activities in the country.

Collection of composite fee through e-payment system would be implemented by the States from June. Further, the committee has decided to recommend that the proposed composite fee system be applicable on or before January 1, 2010.

Mr. Charan Singh Lohara, AIMTC President, thanked Mr. Brahm Dutt, Secretary, and Mr. S.K. Dash, Jt. Secretary, Ministry of Road Transport & Highways, for their efforts towards the successful finalisation of the agreement.