Kozhikode: Auto rickshaw need LPG badly

KOZHIKODE: The non-availability of LPG from fuel stations in the City are hitting auto drivers in Kozhikode badly. Many auto drivers are facing difficulties in servicing their vehicles regularly due to the fuel shortage which in turn is affecting their income. According to the statistics with the drivers, more than 1,500 autos with permits are plying in Kozhikode city limits. However, there are only three fuel stations in the City for these autos, according to the drivers. The drivers are planning to call a convention of all LPG auto drivers in the district to discuss the issue and to take strong steps to ensure regular supply of LPG.

Many auto drivers have taken bank loans for purchasing the vehicle, but due to the LPG shortage, they are not able to pay installments  on time. “In Kozhikode City limit, there are three stations – Puthiyangadi, Sarovaram and Kundayithode, where we can refill the tank. However fuel is not available on a regular basis in these stations and we are not able to service throughout the week. No one is calling us for regular travels like school trips because we are not sure whether we will be able to service the next day due to the fuel shortage,” said Sajeev Kumar, an auto driver.

The nearest fuel stations where LPG is available outside the City are in Mukkam and Kondotty which are nearly 30 kilometers away. As the City permit autos are not able to ply outside the limits, sometimes the auto drivers also face the ire of police while travelling to these places to fill the tank. ‘Last week on my way to Kondotty to refill, the Police seized my licence saying I am servicing outside the permitted limit. They do not believe when we explain our plight,” added Sajeev Kumar.

Yasar Arafath, another driver, said that despite the government encouraging pollution-free vehicles like LPG autos, there was no support so far happening in the form of subsidy. “We have to spend almost Rs two lakh on an LPG auto. However, if the government cannot ensure the supply of LPG, how can we earn our daily bread and butter,” he asked. The convention scheduled to be held on July 20 at VKK Menon Indoor Stadium would also demand that the government allot more LPG fuel stations in the City along with subsidy for LPG autos.