Ruptly
"Motorists and transport workers in Bengaluru expressed frustration on Friday over a rise in fuel prices, urging authorities to ease the burden on low-income households and daily wage earners. Footage shows queues of cars and motorbikes at petrol stations across the city, with updated price boards reflecting the latest increases. "The problem is that the government has increased petrol prices. It is creating major difficulties for poor people,” one transport worker said. "Rich people can afford it, but for the poor, spending money on petrol makes it harder to pay for household expenses, ration and other necessities. The government should take action and support us," he added. India recently raised petrol and diesel prices by Rs 3 per litre ($0.031), the first major increase in four years, amid a global surge in crude oil prices linked to disruptions in the Middle East and tensions affecting energy supply routes. The price hike comes as oil marketing companies report significant daily losses due to elevated global prices, with the government facing pressure to balance subsidies and fiscal constraints. "Drivers now have to pay extra for petrol and diesel every day," said a taxi driver. "The central and state governments should reduce taxes and help us. […] We are poor daily wage workers, and if prices are not reduced, survival will become very difficult." Some residents also called for diplomatic engagement to stabilise oil markets, as concerns persist over supply disruptions. "They talk about Iran, but why can't they talk to them and get oil? They should talk to them and get oil, so people don't suffer," said a local. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged citizens and businesses to adopt flexible working practices similar to those used during the COVID-19 pandemic, including remote work and reduced travel where possible. The fuel increase has triggered political debate, with opposition parties accusing the government of adding pressure on households, while ruling party figures defended the move as moderate compared with global trends."
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