Dehradun, Nov. 22 -- The state government has deferred the implementation of the revised fitness fee rates for commercial vehicles older than 15 years until November 21, 2026. Until then, the existing fee structure will continue, preventing an immediate financial burden on vehicle owners, people familiar with the matter said. The development is being seen as a major relief to the transport operators, they added. A notification formalising the decision has been issued by the transport secretary Brijesh Kumar Sant, following instructions from chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami. The deferment comes after the central government recently raised fitness fees for vehicles over 15 years old by up to 10 times. Dhami said the state government chose to postpone the implementation in Uttarakhand in view of public sentiment and the significant financial pressure the revised rates would place on transport operators. "Our government is committed to providing relief to the public and taking timely decisions in the larger interest of the people," Dhami said. "We do not want vehicle owners, especially those involved in the taxi and transport sector, to face a sudden and unexpected financial burden. During the extended period, the old fees will remain in force." He added that the state will implement the new fee structure only after the Union government issues its updated revisions. Dhami said the decision reflects the government's priority of protecting the interests of the poor, the middle class, and thousands dependent on commercial transport for their livelihood. "We remain sensitive to the needs of the public and will continue taking decisions that ease their hardships," he said....