CNG Price Hike in Mumbai Sparks Alarm Among Cab Drivers as Earnings Shrink Amid Unchanged Fares

The retail price of Compressed Natural Gas in Mumbai has been increased by 2 rupees per kilogram, bringing it to 86 rupees per kilogram. The revision has taken place amid uncertainty in global energy markets linked to the ongoing conflict in West Asia.

Cab drivers operating across the city state that repeated increases in fuel prices have intensified their financial burden, particularly as ride fares have not been revised in line with higher operational costs.

Cab driver Faiz Khan stated that the successive fuel price hikes have made it increasingly difficult for drivers to sustain their livelihoods. He said that while fuel expenses continue to rise, earnings have remained largely stagnant, forcing drivers to absorb the additional cost burden.

Another driver, Maan Singh Nikam, expressed frustration over multiple increases in Compressed Natural Gas prices in recent months. He noted that despite continuous escalation in fuel costs, passenger fares have not been adjusted, directly reducing drivers’ net income.

Shakeel Ahmed, another cab driver, shared similar concerns, stating that drivers are unable to pass on increased fuel expenses to passengers. He explained that commuters are generally unwilling to accept higher fares, leaving drivers to operate at existing rates even as operating costs rise.

The latest price revision adds to growing concerns among transport operators already under pressure from inflationary trends. Drivers argue that the widening gap between operating costs and fare structures is making it increasingly difficult to maintain financial viability.

Meanwhile, fuel prices have also increased in other parts of the country. In New Delhi, Compressed Natural Gas prices have been raised by 2.61 rupees per kilogram, marking the fourth revision within the month amid continued volatility in global energy markets.

The rise in fuel costs is expected to impact a large section of public transport operators, including taxi and auto rickshaw drivers, who depend heavily on Compressed Natural Gas as a comparatively economical fuel alternative.

The situation highlights growing strain within the urban transport sector, where escalating fuel prices and stagnant fare structures are creating mounting economic pressure on daily operators.