Auto-Taxi Drivers’ Strike: Amid rising fuel prices, taxi and auto-rickshaw drivers in Delhi have announced a 3-day strike. Drivers of commercial vehicles have finalised their plans to go on strike in Delhi. In light of the escalating CNG prices, these drivers are set to go on a 3- day strike to demand an increase in auto and taxi fares. On Monday, the All India Motor Transport Congress submitted a letter to Delhi’s Lieutenant Governor, Tarunjit Singh Sandhu, and Delhi’s Chief Minister, Rekha Gupta, formally presenting their demands.
This strike is scheduled to take place from May 21 to May 23; consequently, the general public in Delhi may face significant difficulties in commuting to offices, homes, railway stations, and metro stations. Delhi to Witness 3-Day Transport Strike
Anuj Kumar Rathore, Vice President of the Chalak Shakti Union, stated, “The prices of CNG, petrol, and diesel are rising continuously. Consequently, these escalating costs are making it immensely difficult for drivers to support their families. Therefore, in coordination with other organisations in Delhi, the Chalak Shakti Union has announced a transport strike.
‘Chakka Jam’ on May 21, 22, and 23.”
Drivers of taxis, auto-rickshaws, and other commercial vehicles in Delhi have long been demanding a fare hike. This demand has intensified following the recent surge in fuel prices. The unions assert that taxi and auto fares must be increased and that the fare rate list should be revised in light of rising fuel costs.
CNG Becomes More Expensive
It is worth noting that ongoing tensions in the Middle East have caused significant disruptions to the supply of crude oil and natural gas, leading to sharp spikes in their prices. Oil and gas companies have begun raising petrol, diesel, and CNG prices to pass on the burden of increased costs. Within just one week, there has been a substantial surge in the prices of petrol, diesel, and CNG. Specifically, the price of CNG has risen by ₹3 per kilogram over just two to three days.