The West Bengal government has faced a loss of Rs 800 million, as around 30 per cent of private car owners have failed to pay road taxes, according to the state's Transport Minister, Snehasis Chakraborty, who made the statement on Monday. In West Bengal, car owners are required to pay road tax for a five-year period during the time of purchase, and thereafter, in subsequent five-year phases. They also have the option to pay a one-time road tax for 15 years.

Minister Chakraborty informed PTI that approximately 30 per cent of car owners, including those with high-end vehicles, neglect to pay the tax after the initial five-year period, resulting in a total of Rs 800 million in unpaid taxes.

However, the minister clarified that this may not always be intentional. He mentioned that, in many cases, car owners do not check the messages sent to their mobile phones, which might lead to oversight or forgetfulness. He added that when such cars are stopped by the police based on information from the authorities, owners often feel embarrassed and quickly pay the due amount. The minister further pointed out that even some premium luxury car owners are included in this group.

The transport department is considering ways to remind car owners about tax defaults in a polite but effective manner, Chakraborty said.

Additionally, he urged car dealers to encourage buyers to opt for the 15-year tax payment option instead of the five-year one. He explained that while the one-time payment is likely to be higher, it would help owners avoid future harassment.