20,000 Autos Off Chennai Roads Due to LPG, CNG Shortage
Around 20,000 autorickshaws stayed off the roads in Chennai and nearby areas for the second consecutive day on Wednesday due to a shortage of Auto LPG and CNG, according to trade unions.
Union representatives said that out of 1.30 lakh autos operating in the city, many drivers have stopped services as fuel supply has reduced. About 60% of autos run on Auto LPG or petrol, while 40% run on CNG, which already has limited filling stations.
Drivers also alleged that some private bunks increased the Auto LPG price up to ₹80 per litre, compared to the government-fixed rate of ₹64.51 at oil company outlets.
The shortage is reported to be more severe in Madhavaram, Ambattur and Avadi, where some private bunks have stopped sales. The reduced availability of autos has also affected cab services at Chennai Airport, causing delays for passengers.
Meanwhile, fuel dealers said they were advised to sell Auto LPG carefully due to uncertainty in the next stock arrival, and supply was reportedly reduced by around 30% on Wednesday.
