CNG Auto Fare Hike: The impact of the war in the Middle East is now being felt on Indian roads. Several cities are experiencing a severe shortage of automotive LPG and CNG, leading to increased fares for CNG auto-rickshaws. According to the Auto Rickshaw Union in Chennai, nearly a quarter of gas-powered auto-rickshaws were unable to find fuel in the past 24 hours. This has forced thousands of drivers to revert to expensive petrol or abandon their autos. Furthermore, fuel prices on the black market are nearly 30% higher than the official rate, increasing the average fare by nearly Rs 50.
The number of vehicles plying Chennai’s roads is rapidly declining due to fuel shortages. S. Balasubramaniam, state executive president of the Tamil Nadu Auto Thozhilalargal Sammelanam, said that about 25% of gas-powered autos were unable to get gas yesterday. He warned that if the shortage continues, more autos could shut down, threatening the livelihoods of thousands of drivers. Many drivers had switched to gas for better mileage but are now forced to switch back to petrol, significantly reducing their daily earnings.
Higher rent is also being imposed in Mumbai
At the same time, commuters in Mumbai have been experiencing considerable inconvenience over the last few days due to a shortage of CNG fuel. The lack of CNG at most stations in Mumbai, Thane, and Navi Mumbai has led to a decrease in the availability of auto and taxi services on the streets. Some auto drivers are taking advantage of this situation by charging excessively high fares from passengers. This issue originated from a malfunction in the Gas Authority of India’s (GAIL) primary gas supply pipeline at the National Chemicals and Fertilizers (RCF) complex in Chembur. This malfunction has impacted around 133 CNG stations, causing drivers to endure long waits to refuel.
Impact on Ola and Uber drivers
Additionally, gig workers associated with ride-hailing services are voicing their worries about the LPG and CNG fuel shortage, stating that it could severely affect their income. Sheikh Salauddin, who represents the Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union and the Indian Federation of App-Based Transport Workers, mentioned that thousands of drivers working for ride-hailing platforms like Ola, Uber, and Rapido depend on affordable fuel to operate their vehicles. He noted that the fuel scarcity is resulting in lengthy lines at petrol stations and a drop in drivers’ earnings.