Guwahati: The surge in petrol and diesel prices has triggered widespread concern among residents across the city, with many expressing that the increase will significantly impact their daily expenditures and overall household budgets.
Currently, petrol costs Rs 101.20 per litre, diesel is priced at Rs 92.49 per litre, and premium-grade petrol stands at Rs 110.15 per litre. Taxi drivers in the city have voiced deep apprehension about the future viability of their businesses.
"This is a severe blow for us, as the escalating fuel cost adds to our compounding problems of rising toll taxes and maintenance expenses. However, our earnings are insufficient to cover these costs. Sometimes we are compelled to increase fares for passengers just to manage daily expenses. Passengers become upset, as they too are grappling with financial pressure," said Pinku Sononwal, a taxi driver.
Sonowal added that the hike would reduce the number of trips they can make and push up package tour prices, which typically range between Rs 10,000 and Rs 30,000 or more, depending on the destination, distance, and duration.
Transport experts have advised citizens to gradually shift towards public transportation systems and bicycles to reduce dependency on fuel-driven private vehicles. "To reduce our dependence on fossil fuels, we must rethink the way we travel. For destinations within 1-2 km, walking should become a regular habit. For distances of 5-10 km, cycling can be an efficient and healthy alternative. For longer trips, people should make greater use of buses and public transport. Small changes in our daily travel choices can collectively help save fuel, reduce pollution, and build a more sustainable future for our cities and the nation," said Arshel Akhtar, a sustainable urban mobility advocate.
He further added that private and government entities can facilitate carpool systems to mitigate the impact.
The fuel price hike is also expected to reverberate through local markets. Shopkeepers and traders have warned that the increased transportation costs for bringing goods from wholesale markets may eventually lead to a rise in the prices of essential commodities. "Higher fuel prices will affect the transportation of food items and agricultural products, leading to price rises," said Vimal Kumar, a store owner in the city's Fancybazar area.
