Bengaluru Auto Drivers Reject Indian Oil's Petrol Switch Amid LPG Shortage
‘Not a solution’: Bengaluru auto drivers reject Indian Oil’s advice to temporarily switch to petrol amid LPG crisis
The Indian Express
Image: The Indian Express
In response to the ongoing auto LPG shortage in Karnataka, Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) suggested that autorickshaw drivers temporarily switch to petrol. However, drivers argue that this dual-fuel option is impractical for their daily operations, as many have not used petrol in years and face engine issues.
- 01Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) urged autorickshaw drivers in Karnataka to switch to petrol due to an auto LPG shortage.
- 02Drivers have rejected this suggestion, citing impracticality for daily commercial use.
- 03The average daily LPG supply in Karnataka has increased but remains under strain.
- 04Pricing disparities between public and private LPG outlets are influencing driver behavior.
- 05Many autorickshaw drivers are currently unable to operate due to closed gas stations.
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As Karnataka faces a severe auto LPG shortage, Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) has advised autorickshaw drivers to temporarily switch to petrol to alleviate pressure on supply stations. Despite IOCL's increased LPG supply, which rose from 43.5 metric tonnes per day in February to 68.53 MT/day by April 4, many gas stations remain closed. This has led to a significant influx of vehicles at the few operational auto LPG dispensing stations (ALDS) run by public sector undertakings. Drivers have expressed that the dual-fuel system is not a viable solution, as many autorickshaws have not utilized petrol for years, leading to poor fuel economy and potential engine issues. The Autorickshaw Drivers Union (ARDU) has criticized IOCL's suggestion, emphasizing that the petrol capacity of their vehicles is minimal and insufficient for their daily travel needs, which can reach 100-150 km. Pricing differences have also influenced driver behavior, with public sector outlets offering auto LPG at ₹89.52 per litre compared to private outlets charging between ₹99 and ₹105 per litre, further complicating the situation for drivers.
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The ongoing LPG shortage and the inability to switch to petrol are severely affecting autorickshaw drivers' ability to operate, leading to reduced mobility for commuters.
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