Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, March 29 Several auto-rickshaw drivers gathered outside the residence of Maharashtra minister Sanjay Shirsat here on Sunday, alleging a shortage of gas for their vehicles amid the ongoing conflict in West Asia.
The drivers said they had been queuing up at fuel stations for the past few days without success, and had decided to hold this protest to bring the district's guardian minister, Shirsat, to their attention.
In response, Shirsat contacted the district supply officer and asked him to take appropriate measures to assist the auto-rickshaw drivers.
"These auto-rickshaw drivers have not been able to obtain fuel for the past four days. Take action against the fuel pumps that are causing them distress. Cancel their licenses," Shirsat told the district supply officer.
Meanwhile, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Ambadas Danve alleged that there was a shortage of gas in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, and that fuel pumps were charging "arbitrary rates".
In a post on X, he said that fuel pumps should display their available stock and also provide receipts for all transactions.
If these demands are not met within 24 hours, the Shiv Sena (UBT) will launch a protest in support of the auto-rickshaw drivers, Danve added.