Bengaluru: The number of autorickshaws on city roads dipped noticeably on Wednesday as several drivers, particularly those operating rented vehicles, were forced to halt services due to a sharp rise in LPG prices.
Auto drivers who rent their vehicles typically pay between ₹300 and ₹350 per day as rental charges. However, with LPG prices surging, their daily expenses have increased significantly, making operations financially unviable.
Rising costs hit daily earnings
According to C Sampath, General Secretary of the Adarsha Auto Drivers Union, drivers now need to spend between ₹450 and ₹550 per day on LPG alone.
“With LPG prices soaring, it is impossible for drivers who rent autos to survive even for a day. They are paying more for rent and gas than what they earn daily,” he said.
He added that around 10 per cent of the union’s 14,000 members had already stopped operating on Wednesday, and the number is expected to rise if fuel prices remain high.
Long queues add to woes
As of April 1, LPG prices in the city averaged around ₹85 per litre. The situation has been compounded by long waiting times at fuel stations, with drivers spending hours in queues.
Government-run LPG outlets in areas such as Koramangala, Madiwala, and Mysore Road witnessed heavy rush, with many drivers waiting for over an hour to refill their tanks.
The delays further reduce the number of trips drivers can complete in a day, directly impacting their earnings.
Drivers seek alternative livelihoods
Many drivers are now exploring alternative income sources to cope with losses. Muzzamil Pasha (48), who rents his auto for ₹350 daily, said he has been working without profit for several days.
“I have decided to temporarily halt operations instead of incurring more losses. I plan to work part-time at my brother’s restaurant,” he said.
Such decisions reflect the growing financial strain on drivers who rely entirely on daily earnings.
Commuters face inconvenience
The reduction in the number of autos has affected commuters across the city. Many reported difficulty in booking rides through aggregator platforms, often waiting 30 to 40 minutes without success.
As a result, several commuters have turned to alternative modes of transport, particularly bike taxis, which are currently more readily available and cost-effective.
Ayushi Jain said, “After struggling to get an auto for long durations, I am now opting for bike taxis. They are easier to find and cheaper compared to autos.”
Others noted that booking autos has become nearly impossible without offering additional tips of over ₹50, especially during peak evening hours.
Impact on urban mobility
The ongoing situation highlights the vulnerability of Bengaluru’s public transport ecosystem, particularly the dependence on autorickshaws for last-mile connectivity.
With rising fuel prices and operational challenges, drivers are increasingly unable to sustain their livelihoods, while commuters face reduced availability and higher costs.
Conclusion
The LPG price hike has created a dual challenge in Bengaluru—financial distress for auto drivers and inconvenience for daily commuters. Unless fuel prices stabilise or relief measures are introduced, the disruption in auto services is likely to persist, affecting the city’s overall mobility.