Indian capital imposes green tax for trucks entering city

The Indian capital has imposed a "green tax" for commercial diesel vehicles, mainly trucks, entering the city, in an effort to curb pollution.

The new tax -- the environment compensation charge -- was implemented from Saturday, following directions of the country's Supreme Court.

Apart from the toll tax levied by Delhi's civic body, all light-duty commercial vehicles will have to pay 700 rupees (10 U.S. dollars) and heavy-duty commercial vehicles 1,300 rupees (20 U.S. dollars).

Those vehicles destined for the national capital will, however, be exempt from the tax. Only those passing through Delhi will have to pay it.

The new tax is aimed at cutting down the number of trucks entering Delhi by over 30 percent, say environmentalists. Enditem