Mumbai CNG prices rise, increasing costs for auto and taxi drivers

CNG prices in Mumbai have risen significantly, with retail costs reaching 89 rupees per kilogram following five price hikes in the last six months. This cumulative increase of 8 rupees per kilogram has increased operational costs for auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers, reducing their daily savings.

Thampi Kurian, president of the auto-rickshaw union, stated that if operational costs continue to rise, a demand for fare revisions may become necessary. While the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority recently adjusted minimum fares—increasing taxi fares from 31 to 33 rupees and auto-rickshaw fares from 26 to 27 rupees—drivers report that rising fuel expenses continue to impact their livelihoods.