The Heavy Crane Owners’ Association held its annual review meeting in Visakhapatnam on Sunday. A key resolution passed during the meeting urged the Telangana government to waive the life tax on cranes registered in Andhra Pradesh. This request, facilitated through the Andhra Pradesh government, aims to alleviate the financial burden on crane owners.
The association also highlighted several crucial issues impacting the industry. They advocated for the inclusion of diesel under the Goods and Services Tax (GST) framework. This, they argued, would standardize taxation and lower operational costs. Furthermore, they resolved to lobby for the classification of the crane business as an industrial sector, thereby unlocking access to specialized government benefits and support.
Addressing the issue of timely payments, the association plans to appeal to companies across various sectors to adhere to their payment commitments as outlined in work orders. This is intended to ensure the financial stability and smooth operation of crane businesses. Finally, the association will request banks to reduce interest rates on heavy crane loans, bringing them in line with rates offered for other Indian-manufactured commercial equipment and vehicles.
Among those present at the meeting were Association Chairman P. Rajesh, President Leela Raghava Rao, and Secretary V. Chandrasekhar.