Kolkata Auto Operators Issue Ultimatum After Record LPG Price Hike
Auto operators in Kolkata have issued a stern ultimatum in response to a sharp increase in auto LPG prices, demanding either immediate fare revision or permission to carry five passengers. This move comes as the city grapples with the highest-ever auto LPG price, which has soared to Rs 82.96 per litre after a recent hike of Rs 12.28 per litre.
Unprecedented Fuel Price Surge Hits Auto Sector
The latest price surge has shattered previous records, surpassing the May 2022 peak of Rs 77.78 per litre. Industry sources attribute this steep rise to delays in tanker movement through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping route. This disruption has exacerbated fuel costs, putting immense pressure on Kolkata's auto operators.
Nearly 99% of the city's 30,000 autos rely on LPG, making them highly vulnerable to fuel price fluctuations. The situation has become untenable for drivers, who are struggling to cover daily expenses amidst soaring costs.
Drivers' Plight and Commuter Concerns
Auto drivers express deep distress over the rapid price increases. Abdul Rahman, an auto driver on the Baruipur-Garia route, stated, "We cannot survive like this. In less than a month, gas prices have increased by over Rs 25. After paying daily rental and fuel costs, there is nothing left. Either allow us to take five passengers or increase fares — otherwise, we will have to stop running autos."
Commuters, however, are worried about the potential impact of fare hikes. Sanchita Ghosh, an office-goer using the Behala Thana-Parneshree route, said, "We understand the drivers' problems, but increasing fares will hit us hard. Public transport is already crowded. Autos are essential, but fares must remain affordable." Rajesh Shaw of Haridevpur echoed this sentiment, urging government intervention to find a balance.
Steady Price Climb and Operational Challenges
The auto LPG price has been climbing steadily over recent weeks:
- January 7: Rs 51.65 per litre
- February 2: Rs 57.68 per litre
- March 11: Rs 62.68 per litre
- March 20: Rs 70.68 per litre
- April 1: Rs 82.96 per litre
An LPG dispensing station owner confirmed this trajectory, noting that tensions in West Asia at the end of February accelerated the price rise. Drivers reported confusion and distress at fuel stations on Wednesday morning, with many queuing for hours only to face last-minute revised rates due to sudden directives.
Union Warnings and Regulatory Pressures
Auto union representatives have amplified drivers' concerns, warning of potential disruptions if demands are not met. A spokesperson for a major auto union highlighted, "This is the highest-ever periodic increase — Rs 25.28 per litre in less than a month. We have conveyed to the authorities that the current fare structure is no longer viable. Either passenger limits must be relaxed or fares have to be revised immediately."
Enforcement rules penalize autos for carrying more than four passengers, further curtailing earning capacity. Drivers argue that this creates a catch-22 situation: following rules leads to financial loss, while breaking them results in fines. This regulatory pressure compounds the financial strain from fuel costs.
Broader Implications for Kolkata's Transport
The crisis threatens to disrupt Kolkata's public transport ecosystem. With autos serving as a vital link in many areas, fare hikes could reduce ridership, while operational halts would leave commuters stranded. The government faces urgent calls to mediate, balancing driver livelihoods with commuter affordability.
As auto operators stand firm on their ultimatum, the city awaits a resolution that addresses both the immediate fuel price shock and long-term sustainability of auto services.
