Himachal Pradesh Dismisses Rumor of Commercial Toilet Tax

The Himachal Pradesh Jal Shakti department refuted claims of a Rs 25 tax per commercial toilet seat, clarifying that existing sewerage charges remain unchanged. An incorrect notification was briefly issued, then withdrawn. The department focuses on sewerage system improvements while urging the public to disregard false reports.

The Himachal Pradesh Jal Shakti department has officially refuted claims suggesting a newly imposed Rs 25 tax per commercial toilet seat across the state. According to Additional Chief Secretary Onkar Chand Sharma, these reports are unfounded and misleading.

Confusion arose following a notification dated September 21, which briefly proposed a Rs 25 fee per toilet seat for commercial establishments and hotels. However, this was promptly rescinded on the same day after objections from the Deputy Chief Minister, who also serves as the Minister of Water Power. Sharma reiterated that there has been no change to the current system where 30 percent of water supply bills cover sewerage charges in urban areas. The proposal aimed at establishments with independent water connections was swiftly retracted.

Sharma assured that the department has not issued any notification imposing such a tax. The focus remains on enhancing sewerage connectivity to achieve full pollution control and effective sewage treatment. The public is urged to disregard any misinformation regarding changes to these charges.

(With inputs from agencies.)