Mumbai News: Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) has become more expensive once again in Mumbai and surrounding regions, with revised prices coming into effect from midnight across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR).
Mahanagar Gas Limited (MGL) has increased the retail price of CNG by Rs 2 per kilogram, taking the new rate to Rs 84 per kg from the earlier Rs 82 per kg. The revised price is applicable across Mumbai, Thane, Navi Mumbai and other parts of the MMR region.
The company has attributed the hike to rising input costs and prevailing market conditions. Officials also pointed to the ongoing conflict in West Asia, which has affected global energy markets and increased fuel procurement expenses.
The latest increase is expected to significantly impact drivers of CNG-run auto-rickshaws and taxis, many of whom rely on the fuel for daily operations.
Auto Drivers Seek Increase In Base Fare
Soon after the price hike was announced, auto-rickshaw unions began demanding a revision in fares. Union representatives said repeated increases in fuel costs were hurting drivers’ earnings and making it difficult to operate vehicles at current fare rates.
The unions have demanded at least a Rs 1 increase in the minimum auto-rickshaw fare and urged the administration to take a quick decision on the matter.
Transport operators fear that if fuel prices continue to rise, the burden may eventually be passed on to commuters through higher fares.
