Autorickshaw drivers across Kerala say soaring fuel prices are making it increasingly difficult to earn a living, with petrol now costing more than ₹113 per litre in parts of the state.

Drivers say a series of fuel price increases in recent weeks has sharply reduced their daily income. According to them, petrol prices have risen four times since the middle of May, leaving many struggling to cover operating costs.

For a large number of drivers who depend on petrol-powered autorickshaws, the rising cost of fuel has raised concerns about the sustainability of their livelihood. Many say a significant share of their daily earnings is now being spent on fuel.

Unofficial fare increases bring risk of penalties

In some towns, drivers have begun collecting an additional ₹10 from passengers in an attempt to offset higher fuel expenses.

However, the practice carries risks. Drivers can face penalties from transport authorities for charging fares beyond the officially approved rates in the absence of a government order revising autorickshaw fares.

Driver organisations say they have repeatedly approached the government seeking a fare revision, but claim they have yet to receive a response.

While some operators have switched to electric autorickshaws to reduce running costs, many others continue to rely on petrol vehicles and say meeting daily expenses has become increasingly difficult.

Union plans march to Secretariat on June 10

Amid growing concerns over rising costs, a section of autorickshaw drivers is preparing to take its demands to the state capital.

The All Kerala Independent Auto Workers Union (HMS) has announced a march to the Secretariat on June 10, calling for measures to support drivers affected by higher fuel prices.

Among its key demands is an increase in the minimum autorickshaw fare to ₹50. The union is also seeking a charge of ₹25 for every kilometre travelled beyond the minimum fare limit.

Wider demands raised

Apart from fare revision, the union has raised several other issues affecting drivers.

These include the creation of additional parking facilities for autorickshaws, action against what it describes as illegal transport services, and improved management of welfare funds intended for workers in the sector.

The protest comes as drivers continue to press for government intervention, arguing that rising operating costs are putting increasing strain on their earnings.