Auto strike in Kolkata hits commuters

Kolkata, Apr 3 (ANI): Auto-rickshaw drivers in Kolkata went off the roads on Tuesday as a mark of protest against the government's decision to hike the prices of fuel.

They also objected to the increase in the premium for insurance.

The hike in fuel prices by Rs 6.50 has resulted in auto-rickshaw drivers raising their voice on a stern note against such a decision and they demanded immediate rollback in the fuel prices.

"The price of fuel has increased by 14 rupees within a year. The insurance rate has also increased and also the police atrocities have bothered us. So, we are putting away all our vehicles as a mark of protest against these developments. Throughout all the areas of south Kolkata, we have stopped operating our auto-rickshaws," said Shymal Kumar Dey, Secretary, South Kolkata Auto-rickshaws Association.

Arvin Ghosh, a commuter while highlighted the misery of the commoners said that government should understand the inconvenience caused to the commuters.

"I am facing lot of problems. The prices of fuel and oil have increased. The government should look into the matter and this is the internal problem of the government. The government should find out the reason for the increase in prices. The problem of auto drivers should be addressed since we, the commuters are the ultimate sufferers," said Arvin Ghosh, a commuter.

On Monday, Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister S Jaipal Reddy confirmed that oil companies are losing rupees 7.67 per litre on the sale of petrol throughout the country. (ANI)