Delhi Autorickshaws Demand Fare Hike After CNG Prices Rise Amid Global Tensions
Delhi's autorickshaw unions are demanding an immediate hike in autorickshaw fares following a recent CNG price increase. The price of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) in Delhi and surrounding cities rose by ₹3.89 per kg on August 29, according to Indraprastha Gas Ltd.
Rajendra Soni, General Secretary of the Auto Rickshaw Association and Delhi Pradesh Taxi Union, stated that the government should increase auto fares within one week or provide a subsidy on CNG prices. If this demand is not met, they will hold a strike on September 9.
The All India Motor and Goods Transport Association also expressed concerns about the CNG price hike. Rajendra Kapoor, its President, noted that the sudden increase of ₹3.89 per kg in CNG prices across Delhi-NCR will have a direct impact on the pockets of the common man, the transport industry, and ultimately the prices of essential commodities.
The revision in CNG prices is due to global Spot LNG prices nearly doubling due to escalating conflicts in West Asia causing disruption in LNG cargo movements through the Strait of Hormuz. This adjustment comes after multiple hikes in recent months, with CNG prices having risen by ₹6 across four separate revisions in less than 15 days.