Auto and taxi drivers unions held a protest outside the office of Delhi Transport Commissioner Niharika Rai on Thursday, demanding a reasonable hike on fares amidst an increase in CNG prices. CNG prices in Delhi and nearby cities rose by Rs 3.89 per kg from Saturday, according to Indraprastha Gas Ltd.
According to the unions, a significant amount of gas used in CNG is obtained from LNG, which is imported. Since the beginning of the West Asia conflict, the prices of imported LNG have risen notably in the market. In addition, the All India Motor and Goods Transport Association also raised concerns over the increased prices.
Rajendra Kapoor, president of the association, showed his concern regarding increased prices of CNG, “The sudden increase of Rs 3.89 per kg in CNG prices across Delhi-NCR is not merely a matter of higher fuel costs. It will directly affect the pockets of the common man, the transport industry and, ultimately, the prices of essential commodities.”
The general secretary of the Auto Rickshaw Association and Delhi Pradesh Taxi Union, Rajendra Soni, demanded an immediate hike in fare prices from the Delhi Government. He asked the Delhi Government to provide a CNG subsidy if they can’t increase fare prices.
“The government should increase the fares at the earliest or provide a subsidy on CNG prices. If the fares are not increased, we will hold a strike on September 9,” Rajendra Soni said.
Rajendra Soni also added that CNG prices had increased several times over the past two to three months. He said the total increase during this period was around Rs 10-11 per kg.
