Bengaluru’s Auto LPG Crisis Deepens: IOC Urges Drivers To Switch To Petrol As Supply Struggles And Long Queues

Bengaluru is currently facing an auto LPG supply crisis, affecting thousands of autorickshaw drivers across the city.

As fuel shortages lead to long queues and operational difficulties, Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) has advised drivers to temporarily switch to petrol to keep their vehicles running.

Why Is There an LPG Shortage?

The shortage of auto LPG is linked to global energy disruptions, especially due to tensions in West Asia. These disruptions have affected supply chains, leading to reduced availability of LPG in several parts of India.

In Bengaluru, the situation has worsened because many private auto LPG stations are not functioning. Reports suggest that nearly 80% of private outlets in Karnataka have shut down temporarily, putting extra pressure on public sector fuel stations.

IOC's Advisory to Autorickshaw Drivers

To deal with the situation, IOC has urged drivers to switch to petrol wherever possible. This is feasible because a large number of autorickshaws in the city are equipped with dual-fuel systems, allowing them to run on both LPG and petrol.

The company believes this temporary shift can help drivers avoid long waiting times at LPG stations and continue their daily work without major interruptions.

Supply Increased, But Challenges Remain

IOC has taken steps to increase LPG supply in response to rising demand. The company has steadily raised its daily distribution levels over the past few months.

However, officials admit that supply is still not enough to meet the growing demand. Limited infrastructure, fewer dispensing stations, and capacity issues are slowing down the distribution process.

Price Difference Adds to the Problem

Another reason for the long queues at public sector outlets is the price gap between public and private stations.

• Auto LPG at PSU stations is priced at around ₹89.5 per litre
• Private outlets are charging between ₹99 and ₹105 per litre

Because of this difference, more drivers are choosing PSU stations, increasing congestion and waiting times.

Impact on Drivers' Livelihoods

The LPG shortage is directly affecting the income of autorickshaw drivers. With long queues and uncertain fuel availability, many drivers are losing valuable working hours.
Driver unions have raised concerns that this situation is making it difficult for them to manage daily expenses such as:

• Loan EMIs
• House rent
• School fees

Many drivers say their earnings have dropped significantly in recent weeks.

Protests Planned by Auto Unions

Autorickshaw unions in Bengaluru are planning protests to highlight their concerns. They are demanding:

• Assured daily LPG supply
• Better fuel availability across stations
• Government support for switching to alternative fuels like CNG

Union leaders are also expected to submit a memorandum to the state government.

IOC has assured that LPG is still available within its network and that efforts are ongoing to improve supply. The company continues to stress that switching to petrol is a practical short-term solution.