Hubballi-Dharwad District Administration Implements Measures to Address Auto LPG Crisis
In response to mounting complaints from auto drivers regarding severe shortages and erratic price fluctuations of Auto LPG, the district administration of Hubballi-Dharwad has announced a comprehensive set of measures aimed at restoring stability and transparency in the fuel supply chain. The crisis, exacerbated by the ongoing conflict in West Asia, has led to significant hardships for thousands of drivers dependent on this essential fuel.
Drivers Highlight Widespread Price Disparities and Shortages
Auto drivers in the twin cities have reported alarming variations in Auto LPG prices across different fuel bunks, with rates ranging from Rs 88 to Rs 135 per litre. This stark contrast has intensified the challenges faced by drivers, who rely heavily on Auto LPG for their daily operations. Shekarrayya Matapathi, president of the Uttar Karnataka Auto Drivers Association in Hubballi, emphasized the severity of the situation, noting that the region has approximately 21 Auto LPG bunks and over 25,000 autos operating daily.
"Before the conflict, Auto LPG was priced between Rs 58 and Rs 61 per litre. Suddenly, prices surged by 60% to 90%, creating a dire predicament for drivers," Matapathi stated. He added that one litre of Auto LPG typically allows an auto to travel 18 to 21 kilometers, making the price hikes particularly burdensome.
Administration's Swift Response and New Regulations
Following appeals from the auto drivers' association to Union minister Pralhad Joshi and District Commissioner Snehal R, a review meeting was convened in Dharwad. DC Snehal R met with representatives from Auto LPG bunks, officials from the food and civil supplies department, and auto drivers to address the crisis. During the meeting, she issued several directives to ensure greater accountability and relief for drivers.
- Bunk owners are now required to display daily prices and available stock prominently to promote transparency.
- Strict warnings were issued against exorbitant pricing, with the threat of legal action for non-compliance.
- Bunks must provide essential amenities such as drinking water and clean toilets, as drivers often endure long waiting hours.
Establishment of Monitoring Committee and Helpline
To enforce these measures effectively, the administration has established a dedicated monitoring committee tasked with regular inspections of Auto LPG bunks. Additionally, a nodal officer will be appointed immediately to oversee compliance and address grievances. A helpline (1077) has been activated specifically for complaints related to Auto LPG and cooking gas, offering a direct channel for drivers to report issues.
Auto drivers have welcomed these initiatives, highlighting that nearly 99% of autos in the region depend on Auto LPG. They have called for sustained inspections to stabilize both supply and prices, ensuring long-term relief from the ongoing crisis. The district administration's proactive steps aim to mitigate the impact of global conflicts on local fuel markets and safeguard the livelihoods of thousands of auto drivers in Hubballi-Dharwad.
