Autorickshaw drivers conduct stir in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar to protest fuel crisis

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar: Members of different autorickshaw unions in the city on Monday kept their vehicles off the road to protest against alleged shortages of LPG and CNG, as well as the rise in fuel prices.The day-long bandh caused inconvenience to thousands of commuters, who are dependent on autos for their travel requirements.At the outset, a ‘chakka jaam' protest rally was conducted from Kranti Chowk towards the district collectorate with participation from a large number of auto drivers. Saleem Khamgaokar of the Maharashtra Vahatuk Sena said the auto driver community is facing an issue of survival now, and immediate govt intervention is the need of the hour."We demand that prices of LPG be restored with immediate effect. The outlets supplying fuel must operate round-the-clock to ease the situation. Also, availability of stock must be displayed outside every outlet for the benefit of auto drivers," he said.Ganesh Supekar of the Akhil Bharatiya Chhawa Sanghatana said auto drivers and their family members are finding it difficult to make ends meet due to the fuel crisis."Many auto drivers have to keep their vehicles off road due to unavailability of fuel as they are unable to refill despite standing in long queues. To add to ongoing troubles, the hike in fuel prices has broken our backs," he said.When contacted, district supply officer Pravin Phulari only said, "The supply and pricing of fuel for transport needs is taking place as per regulatory policies of govt in coordination with supplier companies."Meanwhile, auto unions also demanded an increased number of rickshaw stands and curbs on illegal transportation by private buses, among other demands. The city has over 32,000 registered autorickshaws, with a considerable chunk running on LPG and CNG.