Petrol & diesel price hikes fuel widespread anger
The sharp rise in petrol and diesel prices has sparked anger among all sections of the society in Nashik. Farmers, businessmen, industrialists and the general public have said the rising fuel prices are burning a hole in their pockets.
On Wednesday, the petrol price rose to Rs 90.95 per litre and diesel price was recorded at Rs 79.65 per litre in
the city — 21% and 24% rise, respectively, since March. According to the office bearer of the petrol dealers’ association, high Central and state tax rates are to be blamed for the hikes. The daily price change method is also leading to a hike in prices.
Farmers said the cost of cultivating crops has gone up as they need to purchase diesel for tractors and water pumps. Industrialists, meanwhile, are hit by increased transportation costs. Even the salaried people in Nashik, who have suffered pay cuts due to lockdown, said the rising fuel prices are adding to their financial woes.
“The monthly budget for my car’s petrol has now increased by Rs 450. I can’t avoid these expenses as I have to commute between office and home. I have had to cut back on outings with my family members,” said Abhishek Kale, a private employee.
