Madhya Pradesh: Auto-rickshaw drivers in Shivpuri hit by double whammy—42°C heat and inflation make life tough
मुख्य बातें
- •Temperatures in Shivpuri have reached 42°C, affecting auto-rickshaw drivers’ earnings.
- •Rising diesel and petrol prices have increased operational costs for drivers.
- •Daily earnings have dropped to ₹500–₹700 due to reduced passenger numbers in the heat.
- •Local authorities are implementing heat-relief measures but cannot provide direct aid to drivers.
- •Drivers urge the government to offer fuel subsidies or financial assistance to cope with the crisis.
Shivpuri district in Madhya Pradesh has been reeling under severe heat over the past few days, with temperatures soaring to 42°C. This extreme weather has not only made life difficult for residents but has also dealt a double blow to auto-rickshaw drivers. Amid rising inflation, where fuel and other expenses have skyrocketed, the heat has further reduced the number of passengers. This has severely impacted the drivers’ earnings, deepening their financial crisis.
Local auto-rickshaw drivers say that over the past few months, the consistent rise in diesel and petrol prices has significantly increased their operational costs. One driver shared that he now spends around ₹300 to ₹400 on diesel daily, compared to ₹200 earlier. Additionally, the heat has kept people indoors, leading to a sharp decline in their daily earnings. Many drivers report earning only ₹500 to ₹700 a day during this season, while their essential expenses exceed ₹800.
