Residents criticise govt over increase in fuel prices

Tribune News Service

Bathinda, September 21

Residents today criticised the hike in fuel prices in the past 20 days. Petrol is sold at Rs 75.35 per litre while diesel at Rs 58.69 per litre.

During the past two months, the price of petrol has increased from Rs 68 to Rs 75.35 per litre. The diesel price has also increased likewise.

Residents said the recent hike in the fuel prices, would put more burden on their monthly household budget.

Raman Watts, president, Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI), Bathinda, said the hike in diesel prices always put an extra burden on the industry.

“With an increase in the diesel prices, we have to increase prices of products to prevent losses,” he added.

“Even if the price of diesel reaches Rs 200 per litre, the rich would still drive their cars. But what about the middle class, which keeps reeling under price rise? The increase in the prices is unfair,” said Nitika Gupta, a city resident.

Vijay Kumar, another city resident, said fuel was an essential commodity and hike in the prices affected the monthly budget of people.

“Without a doubt, families with limited income will be the most affected. The government seems to have failed to deliver on its promise of bringing about ‘acche din’,” he added.

Neeraj Kumar, another city resident, said, “We have three vehicles, which are being used by my husband and children. We will incur additional expenses of at least Rs 1,000 to 1,500 on petrol. Besides, even the prices of commodities have also gone up again.”

The government should take some serious steps to stop revisions in the petrol prices, he said.

The government should bear the loss instead of passing the burden on consumers, he added.