Bengaluru’s autorickshaw drivers continue to face severe hardship as the ongoing auto LPG shortage has led to long queues at fuel stations, soaring prices and sharp income losses.
Drivers across the city say they are spending several hours each day waiting at fuel pumps, reducing their working time and daily earnings. Public Sector Undertaking fuel stations are reportedly selling LPG between Rs 90 per litre, up from around Rs 60 earlier, while some private outlets are charging as high as Rs 130.
Long waits, lower earnings
Many drivers said they now lose three to four hours daily standing in queues. This has directly affected their income, with some claiming losses of nearly Rs 250 a day.
M Manjunath said supply at PSU-run stations remains inadequate despite fuel being available. He noted that nearly one lakh autos in Bengaluru depend on LPG, though some have moved to CNG and electric vehicles.
According to him, several drivers are now struggling to repay loans, manage rent, and pay school fees for their children.
Families under pressure
Union leaders said many drivers have temporarily stopped operating autos and taken up other jobs to support their families.
Rudramurthy said the crisis has continued for over 20 days, with drivers avoiding costly private fuel stations.
Unions warn of protest
The Adarsha Auto Union and other associations have urged the Karnataka government to step in immediately. Their demands include a three-month moratorium on vehicle and microfinance loans, flexibility in school fee payments, and urgent action to stabilise LPG supply and pricing.
They have also warned of protests if timely relief is not announced