Auto drivers demand action on fuel rates, bike taxis Autorickshaw drivers in Nagpur staged a protest at the collector’s office on Tuesday, demanding urgent measures to address the sharp rise in LPG prices and its impact on their livelihoods. Around 50 drivers participated in the demonstration, led by corporator Wasim Khan, who highlighted the steep increase in fuel costs as a major challenge for their daily operations. Drivers reported that LPG prices have surged from Rs54 to Rs84 per litre, with some companies charging as high as Rs96, making it difficult to sustain their businesses. Many emphasized that the hike has outpaced their earnings, pushing them toward financial strain. Khan, who also towed an auto-rickshaw to the protest site as a symbolic gesture, stated that the rise in LPG prices affects every driver in the city. “The increase in fuel costs is making it nearly impossible to manage daily expenses,” he said. Drivers noted that their expenses, including maintenance and permits, are already high, and the added burden of fuel price hikes has exacerbated their struggles. The protest underscored the direct link between rising fuel costs and reduced profit margins for auto drivers, who rely heavily on LPG as their primary fuel source. In addition to fuel prices, drivers raised concerns about the growing competition from app-based bike taxi services operated by private players. They argued that these services are undermining traditional auto operations and called for regulatory intervention to protect their livelihoods. The drivers’ demands reflect broader frustrations with rising operational costs and the lack of support from authorities to address their financial challenges.#nagpur #lpg_prices #wasim_khan #app_based_bike_taxi_services #auto_drivers
Letters to The Editor — March 10, 2026 The Prime Minister’s recent remarks about the alleged shortcomings of the West Bengal government in organizing the International Santal Conference have sparked debate. The comments, reportedly made during election speeches, followed President Droupadi Murmu’s expressed disappointment over the arrangements for her visit. Critics argue that the Prime Minister’s focus on this issue raises questions about the adequacy of advance notice provided to the West Bengal government. Additionally, concerns have been raised about protocol breaches involving sudden changes in the appointment of Governors in certain states, with doubts about whether Chief Ministers were sufficiently informed or consulted. These incidents are seen as indicative of growing tensions between the central government and state administrations within an increasingly fragmented federal structure. The West Bengal government’s response to the criticism has been met with skepticism. Given the symbolic importance of the President’s role, the circumstances surrounding the arrangements for her visit warrant thorough examination. The lack of clarity about the government’s preparedness has prompted calls for a detailed explanation of the events. The recent increase in LPG prices has caused distress for households, but broader economic factors must also be considered. Tensions in West Asia have disrupted global supply chains, and India’s reliance on imported LPG has made it vulnerable to price fluctuations. While the price hike is unwelcome, analysts note that the adjustment remains relatively modest compared to the scale of international disruptions. Domestic supply chains, however, have remained stable, ensuring uninterrupted access to essential fuel.#prime_minister #west_bengal_government #droupadi_murmu #international_santal_conference #lpg_prices
Asian LNG Prices Surge to Highest Since 2023 on Middle East Conflict Asian liquefied natural gas prices hit a six-month high as tensions in the Middle East disrupted global supply chains, with the shutdown of Qatar’s largest export facility and blockades at the Strait of Hormuz driving demand and costs upward. Spot prices in the region climbed to $25.40 per million British thermal units, nearly doubling from levels seen a week earlier. Traders warned that further price increases could persist if the disruptions in Qatar and the critical shipping route remain unresolved. The crisis unfolded as the world’s largest LNG exporter, Qatar, faced operational challenges at its North Field facility, a key supplier to Asian markets. Simultaneously, the Strait of Hormuz, a vital artery for global oil and gas trade, saw heightened activity due to geopolitical tensions, leading to delays in shipments and increased uncertainty. These factors combined to tighten supply, pushing prices to their highest level since early 2023. Analysts noted that the situation has created a perfect storm for LNG markets, with limited alternative supply routes and growing demand from Asian economies. The shutdown of Qatar’s export plant, which accounts for a significant share of global LNG supply, has exacerbated the shortage, while the Strait of Hormuz blockades have further constrained movement of goods. Traders emphasized that the price surge is a direct reflection of these supply-side disruptions, with no immediate signs of resolution. The impact of the crisis has been felt across the region, with energy companies scrambling to secure alternative sources of supply. While some shipments have been rerouted through other channels, the scale of the disruptions has left many buyers vulnerable to price volatility.#strait_of_hormuz #qatar #lpg_prices #north_field_facility #asian_markets
