Lahore: The Punjab government has imposed a garbage tax in all cities of the province. Approval for implementing the garbage tax was granted by the Provincial Cabinet’s Standing Committee on Finance and Development, followed by the issuance of a notification.
According to the notification issued by the Punjab government, the garbage tax will be levied on residents of rural and urban areas, as well as on small and large businesses. In rural areas, households with plots ranging from 5 to 10 marlas will pay a monthly tax of Rs. 200, while those with plots from 10 marlas to one kanal or larger will pay Rs. 400 monthly.
For small businesses and shops in villages, a tax of Rs. 300 has been imposed, while medium-level businesses will pay Rs. 700. Large businesses, factories, and petrol pumps will be charged Rs. 700 per month.
In Lahore city, the tax rates for garbage collection have been increased compared to rural areas. For urban dwellers, households with 5 marla plots will pay Rs. 300 per month, increasing to Rs. 500 for plots ranging from 5 to 10 marlas. Homes with plots from 10 marlas to one kanal will face a monthly tax of Rs. 2,000, while larger properties will pay Rs. 5,000 per month.
Businesses in cities, including shops and others, will be taxed Rs. 500, while medium-scale businesses will be charged Rs. 1,000. Large businesses operating factories, industrial units, and major enterprises will face a monthly tax of Rs. 3,000.
The implementation of this garbage tax aims to enhance waste management services across Punjab, ensuring cleaner and more sustainable urban and rural environments.