Politics · India Bureau
Delhi auto unions demand fare hike as CNG prices surge sharply
Transport unions in Delhi have called for an immediate increase in autorickshaw fares following a sharp spike in CNG prices, threatening strike action if the government does not respond within a week.
LSN India ·
City-based autorickshaw and taxi unions on Saturday demanded an urgent fare revision from the Delhi government after CNG prices jumped by Rs 3.89 per kilogram. The price increase, implemented by Indraprastha Gas Ltd, has placed additional financial strain on auto operators already contending with rising fuel costs.
The surge in CNG prices stems from increased reliance on imported liquefied natural gas (LNG) to meet demand in Delhi and surrounding areas. Global LNG prices in the spot market have risen significantly since the outbreak of the West Asia conflict, pushing up domestic CNG costs.
Auto Rickshaw Association and Delhi Pradesh Taxi Union General Secretary Rajendra Soni issued a statement noting that CNG prices have climbed approximately Rs 10-11 per kilogram over the past two to three months. "The Delhi government should increase auto and taxi fares with immediate effect within one week, as the burden on poor drivers has suddenly increased," Soni said.
The unions have threatened to launch a strike on September 9 if the government fails to implement the fare revision. The move comes as operators face mounting pressure to maintain service viability amid volatile fuel costs.