Bengaluru Auto LPG Crisis Shows Signs of Easing Amid Supply Improvements
The ongoing LPG crisis affecting autorickshaw drivers in Bengaluru saw a slight improvement on Saturday, as public sector fuel stations reported enhanced supplies and resumed operations. However, long queues of autorickshaws remained a common sight across the city, indicating that challenges persist for drivers reliant on this essential fuel.
Drivers Report Marginal Relief Amid Lingering Uncertainty
Autorickshaw drivers expressed cautious optimism, noting that the situation had eased somewhat since Friday. Sagayaraja S, a driver, shared his experience: "After waiting for half a day, I managed to get LPG filled from a station yesterday. Given the uncertainty about future availability, I have already filled 10 litres in advance as a precaution." This sentiment highlights the ongoing anxiety among drivers despite the temporary respite.
Public Sector Stations Reopen Following Supply Boost
In response to an announcement by Indian Oil Corporation Limited regarding increased Auto LPG supply, several public sector outlets that were closed on Thursday have reopened. For instance, an Indian Oil station near the Regional Passport Office in Koramangala, which had previously remained shut, was fully operational on Saturday. This development marks a positive step in addressing the fuel shortage.
Prices Dip Slightly as Supply Stabilizes
Accompanying the improved supply, prices have eased marginally. Auto LPG, which was being sold at approximately Rs 95 per litre, was priced at Rs 89.5 at Indian Oil outlets on Saturday. Similar rates were observed at Hindustan Petroleum stations, providing some financial relief to drivers amid the crisis.
Long Queues Persist Despite Operational Improvements
Despite the reopening of public stations, queues continued to stretch for long distances across Bengaluru. At a Hindustan Petroleum outlet on Hosur Road, lines extended for hundreds of metres, though they were moving steadily. Notices that earlier read "No stock" have now been replaced with timings for fuel availability. One driver remarked, "Stock is no longer the issue, but there is no relief from the queues," underscoring the logistical challenges that remain.
Private Stations Remain Shut, Adding to Woes
In contrast to the public sector, several private auto LPG stations remained closed, exacerbating the situation for drivers. A station in BTM Layout was barricaded to prevent vehicles from lining up, with a pump official stating, "We haven't been functional since yesterday evening and don't know when the next stock will arrive. Our last selling price was Rs 95 per litre." Another outlet near Banashankari Temple also remained closed, with locals reporting it has not operated for the past five days, highlighting the uneven distribution of supply across the city.
The crisis, while showing signs of easing, continues to impact Bengaluru's autorickshaw community, with drivers navigating a mix of improved public sector operations and persistent private station closures. The situation underscores the need for sustained efforts to ensure stable fuel availability in the city.
