Auto LPG Supply Resumes in Udupi After Shortage, Drivers Demand Continuity

NewsFlash Daily™

23 April

Around 7,000 Litres Supplied as Drivers Return to LPG After Weeks of Fuel Crisis Triggered by Supply Disruptions

Udupi: After weeks of disruption, the supply of auto LPG has finally resumed in Udupi, bringing much-needed relief to thousands of auto-rickshaw drivers who were struggling due to the shortage.

From Today morning, drivers were seen queuing up at LPG pumps across the city as approximately 7,000 litres of gas were supplied, easing the immediate crisis. Officials indicated that additional supplies are expected in the coming days based on demand.

While speaking with NewsFlash Daily™, Brahmavar auto driver Uday Kalshetty said, “For now, we have got relief, but the supply should continue, otherwise we will face problems again. Compared to petrol, LPG is better for autos.”

Drivers Forced to Switch to Petrol Amid Shortage

Due to the prolonged halt in LPG availability, many auto drivers were compelled to operate their vehicles using petrol, significantly increasing their daily fuel expenses and reducing earnings.

Some drivers even temporarily shifted to daily wage jobs, unable to sustain operations without affordable fuel.

“We had no option but to spend more on petrol or stop working altogether,” an auto driver said.

Global Supply Disruptions Behind Crisis

The shortage was reportedly linked to disruptions in LPG imports caused by the ongoing tensions in the Middle East, which impacted supply chains in several Indian cities, including Udupi.

As LPG supply in India relies heavily on imports, any global instability directly affects local availability, leading to such shortages.

Relief Returns, But Concerns Remain

With supply now resuming, auto drivers have expressed relief, but have also urged authorities to ensure consistent and uninterrupted availability in the future.

They have appealed to the government to implement measures that can stabilise supply chains and prevent similar crises from recurring.

Traffic Concerns Near LPG Pumps

Meanwhile, long queues of auto-rickshaws at refuelling stations have raised concerns about traffic congestion in busy areas.

Local residents have urged authorities to deploy traffic police personnel near LPG pumps to manage the situation and avoid inconvenience to other commuters.