Kolkata Auto-Rickshaw Crisis Deepens as LPG Shortage Hits Operations
The on-and-off supply of auto-LPG in Kolkata has created a significant gap between demand and availability, severely impacting auto-rickshaw services across the city. This disruption affects what is often considered the most reliable last-mile connectivity option for residents.
Root Causes and Immediate Impact
The auto-gas shortage, triggered in part by the ongoing conflict in West Asia, has led to erratic fuel distribution. A fuel station manager noted, "The auto-gas supply has been a bit erratic compared to normal time, thus the queues have become permanent even when supply resumes." This inconsistency has resulted in a notable drop in auto availability throughout Kolkata and its adjoining urban areas.
Geographic Spread of the Crisis
The crisis extends beyond central Kolkata to include north and south suburbs, Bidhannagar, Howrah, and North and South 24 Parganas. On numerous routes, auto-rickshaws have either drastically reduced in number or are operating on truncated paths, forcing passengers to pay higher fares for limited service.
Economic Strain on Drivers and Commuters
The situation has worsened due to a rise in LPG prices, from Rs 57.68 to Rs 62.68 per kg, compounding the difficulties for drivers already struggling to procure fuel. Long queues at pumps leave drivers with little time to offset losses, and many are unable to run their vehicles throughout the day due to limited fuel access. This has led to frequent service gaps and extended waiting times for passengers.
Informal Fare Hikes and Union Denials
With fewer autos on the roads and rising operating costs, commuters face a double burden. In Bidhannagar, nearly half of the autos are off the roads. Informal fare hikes are being implemented verbally and without official approval across several routes, though auto unions deny any formal revision, leaving passengers to bear the brunt of increased costs.
Illegal Fuel Practices Emerge
As LPG pumps run dry in various parts of the city, there has been a resurgence of illegal fuel practices. This includes the use of domestic LPG cylinders, meant for cooking, known as "kata gas." Allegations have surfaced that some domestic LPG consumers are illegally selling spare cylinders to auto drivers at inflated prices, further distorting the supply chain and exacerbating the crisis.
Specific Route Disruptions
Several busy corridors are experiencing significant reductions in vehicle availability:
- Ultadanga–Kankurgachi route
- Ultadanga–Phoolbagan corridor
- Karunamoyee area
Commuters on these routes are particularly affected, with no guarantee of timely auto arrivals, unlike the previous norm of availability within minutes.
Broader Implications
The auto-LPG shortage in Kolkata highlights broader vulnerabilities in urban transportation systems, especially when external factors like geopolitical conflicts disrupt supply chains. The crisis underscores the need for more resilient fuel distribution networks and alternative energy solutions to prevent similar disruptions in the future.
