To tackle environmental issues, the Pimpri-Chinchwad Regional Transport Office (RTO) has experienced a boost in revenue, amounting to approximately Rs 4 crore, through the collection of environmental taxes. These taxes, mandated by the state government and targeting polluting, aged vehicles, aim to finance initiatives aimed at mitigating pollution.

However, questions have arisen concerning the effectiveness of measures taken to combat pollution and the utilization of the funds generated. Environmentalists are expressing concerns about the apparent lack of concrete efforts to control pollution, leading to inquiries into the rationale behind imposing such taxes if their intended purpose is not being realized.

Cars and two-wheelers, emitting significant amounts of carbon monoxide after 15 years of use, are major contributors to pollution. The state government implemented the 'Green Tax' in October 2010 to address this issue, entrusting the Regional Transport Office (RTO) with the responsibility for tax collection and enforcement. Despite being granted the necessary authority and powers, critics argue that the RTO is not fully utilizing its capabilities to curb pollution effectively.

The region has witnessed a substantial increase in new vehicle registrations, adding 1.34 lakh vehicles, including 73,000 two-wheelers and 34,000 cars. This surge in registrations has contributed to a revenue of Rs 51 crore. The growing vehicular population, comprising both old and new vehicles, has now reached 26 lakhs in the region.

The Pimpri-Chinchwad RTO has disclosed information for only 22,948 vehicles within its jurisdiction, covering both Pimpri-Chinchwad and adjacent rural areas until 2008. Out of these, 18,909 vehicles have complied with the requirement to pay environmental tax, while over 4,000 vehicles operate within the city without paying the environmental tax, evading compliance.

The government order mandates varying annual taxes based on the type and fuel of vehicles. For example, heavy vehicles exceeding eight years are charged Rs 750 annually. Petrol-driven four-wheelers incur a tax of Rs. 3000, while diesel cars face a fee of Rs. 3500. It is crucial to note that a 2% penalty is imposed monthly on overdue payments.

Green tax is a levy imposed on vehicles, particularly older ones, to address environmental concerns arising from their emissions. Recognized as significant contributors to pollution, these older vehicles are subject to a tax aimed at funding environmental protection initiatives, aligning with efforts to reduce pollution and safeguard environmental health.