The rising cost of fuel has once again hit commuters in Kolkata as auto-rickshaw fares on the Phoolbagan-Girish Park route have been hiked by ₹2 to ₹3. Although no official notification has been issued by the transport authorities, auto drivers have cited the steep hike in LPG prices as the primary reason for this “indirect” fare revision.

Under the new fare structure, the trip from Phoolbagan to Manicktala now costs ₹17 (previously ₹15), while the fare to Girish Park has jumped from ₹20 to ₹23. The logic behind the move lies in the drastic surge in Auto LPG prices, which saw an overall increase of ₹13 per liter in a short span. The price, which stood at ₹62.68 on Wednesday, skyrocketed to ₹70.68 per liter effective from Friday.

Commuters have shown mixed reactions to this sudden development. While some expressed frustration over the added financial burden, others acknowledged the challenges faced by drivers due to rising fuel costs. Apart from the price hike, drivers also highlighted the ordeal of waiting in long queues at filling stations for hours. With global energy markets remaining volatile, the common man continues to bear the brunt of inflation.