kolkata

IIE DIGITAL DESK : The ripple effects of global conflict are beginning to touch daily life in Kolkata, triggering a sudden rise in auto-rickshaw fares and creating anxiety among commuters, drivers, and business owners alike. A sharp overnight hike in CNG prices, coupled with reports of shrinking fuel supplies, has left the city grappling with the first signs of a potential fuel crisis.

From the early hours of Wednesday, long queues of auto-rickshaw drivers were seen outside CNG filling stations across the city. At several pumps, drivers waited patiently for hours in the hope of getting fuel. Many complained that they had received no prior notice about the sudden price increase, which has added to their frustration and uncertainty.

Until Tuesday night, the price of CNG stood at ₹57.68 per kilogram. Overnight, however, the rate jumped by ₹5, taking the new price to ₹62.68. For drivers who rely on daily earnings to sustain their livelihood, the abrupt hike has significantly increased operating costs.

Auto drivers alleged that despite paying the higher price, they were forced to stand in long lines for hours. In several cases, even after waiting for a considerable time, many returned empty-handed due to limited fuel availability. The situation has triggered concerns about a possible supply shortage in the city.

Pump authorities, however, said the decision was beyond their control. According to them, the revised rate was implemented following a sudden directive from higher authorities, leaving them with no option but to sell CNG at the new price.

Facing higher fuel costs, many auto drivers have already begun increasing fares on several routes. Commuters are now feeling the impact of the hike on their daily travel expenses. On the Chingrighata–SDF route, passengers reported that the fare has risen from ₹15 to ₹18, marking a sudden increase of ₹3. Similar fare hikes have also been reported on routes such as Garia–Baruipur and Sonarpur–Garia.

For the city’s middle-class commuters, who rely heavily on shared auto services for daily travel, the unexpected increase has put additional pressure on household budgets. Many office-goers and students said the rising transport cost is becoming difficult to manage.

Auto drivers’ unions have indicated that the current fare increase may not be the last. According to them, if the higher CNG price continues, fares across various routes may have to be raised by ₹5 to ₹10. Drivers argue that without such adjustments, it will become nearly impossible to keep their vehicles running. Some have even warned that they may be forced to suspend services if the situation worsens.

The fuel crisis fears are not limited to transport alone. Restaurants and eateries across Kolkata are also beginning to feel the pressure. From the bustling food lane of Deckers Lane to the famous biryani outlets of Park Circus, restaurant owners say the shortage of gas is becoming a serious concern.

Business owners in areas such as Park Street, Golpark, Chandni Chowk and Esplanade have expressed growing anxiety over the situation. Many say that if the supply of cooking gas does not improve soon, several kitchens may be forced to shut down temporarily.

The problem is also beginning to affect households. Several families have reported delays in LPG delivery despite advance bookings. For many homemakers, the uncertainty surrounding gas supply has created a fresh wave of worry about managing daily cooking.

As global tensions continue to disrupt fuel supply chains, the early signs of economic strain are becoming visible in Kolkata’s everyday life. From rising auto fares to the looming threat of kitchen shutdowns, the city’s residents are already feeling the weight of a crisis that began far beyond its borders.