Bengaluru Auto Strike on April 10? Long Queues At Re-Filling Stations, LPG Bunk Shut, Drivers Struggle

Auto drivers across Karnataka are grappling with a severe auto LPG shortage that has disrupted daily services, particularly in Bengaluru. With long queues outside LPG re-filling stations and many fuel outlets shut, drivers say their livelihoods have taken a major hit.

Autorickshaw unions are now hinting at an auto strike on April 10, even as uncertainty remains over the final decision.

Long Queues and Closed LPG Re-Filling Stations

The crisis is most visible at LPG re-filling stations across Bengaluru, where drivers are waiting for hours in the hope of getting fuel. Many report standing in queues for four to five hours, only to return empty-handed as supplies run out.

Several private LPG re-filling stations have shut down temporarily, while others display "no stock" boards. Only a limited number of government-run outlets are functioning, leading to overcrowding and long waiting times.

Speaking to OneIndia, an auto driver Ilyaz Pasha said there are long queues at fuel stations and several LPG re-filling stations have shut down across the city. He added that drivers are spending hours in line with no guarantee of getting fuel, worsening their daily struggles.

Autos Off Roads, Commuters Affected

The shortage has already reduced the number of autorickshaws operating in the city and other districts. With fuel unavailable, many drivers have parked their vehicles, especially those operating rented autos.

Commuters are now facing longer wait times and difficulty in finding autos, particularly during peak hours. In some areas, regular auto services are on the verge of coming to a halt.

Earnings Collapse, Drivers Leave Cities

Drivers say the shortage has drastically reduced their daily income. With no fuel, there are no trips-and without earnings, managing rent, loan instalments, and household expenses has become difficult.

Several drivers have started leaving Bengaluru and other cities, returning to their native villages to cut costs. Many say survival in urban areas has become impossible under current conditions.

Drivers Link Shortage to Global Crisis

Autorickshaw drivers and unions have linked the sudden shortage to the Iran-Israel conflict, claiming it has disrupted LPG imports into India. They say Karnataka has not witnessed such a severe auto LPG scarcity in recent years.

Even where fuel is available, prices at private outlets have surged to Rs 120-125 per litre, adding further financial strain.

Time Lost, Income Gone

Drivers highlight that the time spent at LPG re-filling stations directly translates to lost income. Entire working days are wasted in queues, with no guarantee of refuelling.

Union leaders claim that over 80% of private LPG re-filling stations are currently shut, while the remaining outlets are either overpriced or irregular in supply.

Auto Strike on April 10?

Autorickshaw unions, which had earlier planned protest at freedom park, are now indicating a possible auto strike on April 10 in Bengaluru, though a final confirmation is still awaited.

Union leaders are demanding urgent government intervention to stabilise LPG supply and control rising prices. They have also sought monthly financial assistance of Rs 15,000 for drivers until the situation improves.

Government Maintains Supply Is Stable

Amid the growing crisis, Petroleum Ministry Official said that LPG supply at the national level remains stable. Joint secretary at the ministry of petroleum and natural gas, Sujata Sharma said nearly 1 lakh tonnes of LPG has been supplied since mid-March, including 6,700 tonnes in a single day, equivalent to around 3.5 lakh domestic cylinders. She also said that no dry-outs have been reported in LPG distributors so far.

Authorities also clarified that domestic LPG supply has not been affected and that bulk non-domestic LPG supply has been restored for sectors like food, agriculture, and industry and others and over 10 lakh commercial LPG cylinders have been sold since March 23.

Despite official assurances, the ground situation in Karnataka remains strained. With LPG re-filling stations running dry, autos going off roads, and incomes collapsing, drivers say immediate action is needed.