Chandigarh Auto, Cab Unions Seek Fare Hike After Fuel Price Rise

In the aftermath of an increase in petrol and diesel rates, pressure is mounting on the Chandigarh administration to raise the stipulated rates for taxis, aggregator cabs, and autos. However, UT officials have stated that there are no plans to do so. They also ruled out an immediate increase in CTU ticket prices.

Auto Union Demands Fare Revision

Chandigarh Auto Union President Anil Kumar said, "We will be increasing rates for auto rides in the Tricity. The price of CNG has increased. The last time the administration increased the rate was more than two years ago. Electricity charging cost for e-autos has also increased. It is high time rates are increased. However, we will also oppose fleecing of consumers by auto drivers. Consumers can approach us or the police in this matter."

Cab Drivers Seek Rental Hike

Aggregator cab drivers have also demanded an increase in rentals to cope with rising costs. Vikram Singh Pundir, President of the Tricity Cab Drivers Welfare Association, Chandigarh, said, "It is for the administration to increase stipulated rates. As per the aggregator policy, the administration is bound to increase charges in line with mounting costs." Nitish Singla, Secretary of the State Transport Authority, countered, "There is no proposal to increase cab or auto charges. The administration is closely monitoring the situation."

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Impact on Industrial Sector

For the industrial sector, the cost of raw materials linked to the petroleum industry has already been increasing. Naveen Manglani, Vice-President of the Chamber of Chandigarh Industries, said, "Cost of raw materials like steel has increased by 20% and that of plastics has doubled since the start of the Middle East war. The latest increase in retail price of petrol and diesel will have limited impact in the short-term." However, he expressed apprehension of more price hikes to come. "The government is still absorbing a lot of price increase of fuel in the international market, but this may be passed on to consumers in phases in the coming days or months. Overall, it will add to inflation in the country," said Manglani.