Torrent Gas has increased the price of compressed natural gas (CNG) by 2.50 per kg, raising concerns among commuters and transport operators. The new rates have come into effect immediately, citing rising input costs and pressure in the energy market.
The hike has hit auto-rickshaw drivers and small transport operators the hardest, as many depend on CNG for daily operations. With fares remaining unchanged, drivers say their earnings are shrinking and they are being forced to work longer hours to make ends meet.
“We are spending more on fuel but earning the same. We have no choice but to drive more,” said an auto driver.
Commuters are also worried that continued fuel price hikes could soon lead to increased fares, affecting their monthly expenses.
The CNG price rise comes amid a broader trend of fuel hikes by private companies. Shell India recently raised petrol and diesel prices on April 1, following a similar move by Nayara Energy, due to rising crude oil costs.
In Bengaluru, Shell petrol prices have gone up significantly, while Nayara Energy also increased petrol and diesel rates last month. However, state-run fuel retailers, which dominate the market, have kept prices unchanged for now.
With both CNG and fuel prices rising, concerns are growing over the affordability of daily travel, and pressure is building for fare hikes or relief measures if the trend continues.