Nagpur Auto-Rickshaw Drivers Grapple with LPG Crisis and Soaring Prices
Auto-rickshaw drivers in Nagpur who rely on LPG are experiencing significant hardships due to an ongoing LPG crisis. This situation is characterized by the closure of several filling stations and a sharp increase in prices, making daily operations increasingly difficult and financially burdensome.
Drivers Voice Concerns Over Disrupted Routines and Thin Margins
Drivers report that the sudden surge in LPG rates, combined with limited availability at some outlets, has severely disrupted their routines and squeezed their already thin profit margins. "Many LPG pumps have shut down amid the crisis. At the same time, prices have also shot up," stated auto union leader Vilas Bhalekar, highlighting the dual challenges faced by the community.
Sharp Price Increase from ₹56 to Over ₹80 per Kilogram
According to Bhalekar, LPG prices, which had remained stable at around ₹56 per kg for nearly four years, recently surged to over ₹80 per kg at various stations. In some instances, prices even reached ₹90 to ₹95 per kg before certain stations ceased operations. "We met Go Gas owner Nitin Khara, who understood our concerns and reduced the price by ₹4. He also assured that rates would be brought down once the situation normalises," Bhalekar added, indicating a slight relief from one provider but ongoing issues elsewhere.
Financial Burden and Impact on Livelihoods
Even though most LPG pumps remain functional, the steep hike of nearly ₹20 per kg has placed a heavy financial burden on drivers who depend on this fuel for their livelihood. Shubham Khobragade, a driver, explained that rising fuel costs are directly impacting earnings. "We shifted to LPG because it was cheaper. Now, with the prices increasing, our expenses have gone up sharply. We cannot increase fares as passengers are unwilling to pay more, so our income has reduced," he said, underscoring the economic strain.
No Immediate Relief in Sight as Drivers Fear Further Earnings Decline
With no immediate relief on the horizon, drivers are apprehensive that the crisis could further dent their earnings if prices remain high and supply issues persist. This ongoing situation threatens to exacerbate financial difficulties for many in the auto-rickshaw sector, who are already operating on narrow margins.
