Udupi: After several days of disruption, the supply of auto LPG has resumed in Udupi, bringing significant relief to auto-rickshaw drivers who had been struggling due to the prolonged shortage.
From Wednesday, drivers were seen queuing up at LPG pumps across the city to refill gas. Approximately 7,000 litres of LPG was supplied on the day, providing temporary respite. Officials indicated that further supply is expected in the coming days to meet demand.
Drivers faced financial strain
The halt in LPG supply over the past few weeks had forced many auto drivers to switch to petrol, leading to a sharp increase in operating costs. As petrol is significantly more expensive, drivers reported a drop in their daily earnings.
Some drivers were even compelled to take up alternative daily wage work to sustain their livelihoods during the shortage. The disruption had thus impacted not only transport services but also the economic stability of those dependent on them.
Global factors behind shortage
The shortage was attributed to disruptions in LPG imports caused by the ongoing war situation in the Middle East. Since India relies heavily on imported LPG, international developments directly affect local supply chains.
The situation had a ripple effect across several cities, including Udupi, highlighting the vulnerability of essential fuel supplies to global events.
Relief but concerns remain
With the resumption of supply, auto drivers have expressed relief, as many can now return to operating their vehicles using LPG, which is more economical compared to petrol.
However, drivers have urged authorities to ensure a consistent and uninterrupted supply in the future. They emphasised that recurring shortages could severely impact their livelihoods and daily operations.
Traffic concerns near LPG pumps
The sudden rush to refill gas has led to long queues of auto-rickshaws lining up along roads near LPG stations. This has raised concerns about traffic congestion and inconvenience to other motorists.
Local residents have appealed to authorities to deploy traffic police personnel in these areas to manage the flow of vehicles and prevent bottlenecks.
Call for stable supply
Auto drivers have also called on the government to take proactive measures to maintain a stable LPG supply chain. Ensuring regular availability, they said, would help avoid similar crises and provide much-needed security to those dependent on LPG for their livelihood.
Conclusion
The resumption of auto LPG supply in Udupi has brought immediate relief to thousands of drivers, but the recent disruption has exposed the fragility of fuel supply systems. Going forward, ensuring consistent availability and better contingency planning will be key to preventing such hardships for the transport community.