Fuel, CNG Price Hikes Spark Protest
The central government is facing intense political heat following another increase in retail fuel and CNG prices. This marks the third consecutive upward revision in fuel rates within the span of just one month.
According to official notifications, retail prices for both petrol and diesel went up across all major cities. Along with liquid fuels, the price of Compressed Natural Gas or CNG also saw a significant jump.
The back-to-back price hikes have triggered immediate and widespread protests from opposition parties nationwide. Political leaders have slammed the administration for failing to protect ordinary citizens from rising living costs.
Common citizens and commercial transport associations are expressing deep worry over the changing rates. Public transport operators warned that the increased input costs will force them to raise fares for daily commuters soon.
While official sources blame global crude oil volatility and supply chain issues, the political battle is escalating. Opposition factions have announced plans for nationwide demonstrations to demand an immediate rollback of the price hikes.
