Delhi Auto-Taxi Strike Today Over CNG Price Hike; Drivers Demand Fare Revision or Subsidy

New Delhi: Auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers in Delhi are on strike today to protest the sharp rise in CNG prices, demanding either a fare revision or a government subsidy. CNG prices have gone up by around Rs 11 per kilogram over the past three months, which drivers say is causing severe financial hardship.

However, the strike is not total — only the Auto Rickshaw Association and the Delhi Pradesh Taxi Union are participating, while taxis affiliated with other associations will continue to operate.

Indraprastha Gas Limited had announced a hike of Rs 3.89 per kilogram in Delhi and nearby cities from Saturday, pushing the CNG price to Rs 86.98 per kilogram. In May alone, the price was raised four times in 15 days, amounting to a total hike of Rs 6 per kilogram. The current price surge is attributed to disruptions in LNG shipments through the Strait of Hormuz following the outbreak of tensions in West Asia, which has led to a near-doubling of global LNG prices.