The recent fuel price hike announced by the Central government led to widespread panic buying in Amritsar on Friday, resulting in long queues, traffic congestion, and temporary shortages at several petrol pumps. Motorists rushed to fill their tanks, with some even carrying extra containers, causing a sudden spike in demand that briefly left a few filling stations without petrol. However, by afternoon, the situation had stabilized, with crowds at most pumps reducing significantly and normalcy returning.
Protests Erupt Over Price Hike
The price increase also sparked protests by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) at Crystal Chowk in Amritsar. Party leaders accused the BJP-led central government of burdening the common man with rising inflation. MLA Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal stated that the hike in fuel prices would directly increase transportation costs, making essential commodities more expensive for the public.
Warning of Intensified Agitation
Dhaliwal warned that the party would intensify its agitation if the government did not immediately reduce fuel prices. The protest highlighted growing public discontent over the economic impact of the fuel price hike, which is expected to affect daily life and the overall cost of living in the region.
