Serpentine queues are now a common feature at supply stations as shortage of CNG looms

Serpentine queues at supply stations are now common as hundreds of automobiles of every size line up in the city. People are confused if the crisis is due to shortage of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) or any other reason. Whatever be the case, the worst affected are auto drivers and can services. Drivers rue that they have to wait for several hours. Since January 19, CNG availability has dropped sharply at several fuel stations.

The Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union (TGPWU) have raised serious concerns over the situation. The Founder and President, Shaik Salauddin, said that the shortage began on January 19 and is likely to continue for at least two more days. He pointed out that the reason behind the disruption has not been officially communicated, adding to confusion and anxiety among drivers. 

“We still do not know whether this shortage is due to a pipeline leak, supply disruption, or some other technical issue. What we do know is that drivers are suffering and are being forced to pay extra money illegally, and we demand immediate action,” Salauddin said. 

Several CNG stations across the city are collecting an extra Rs.10 to Rs.20 per refill, exploiting the shortage. These charges, drivers say, are being demanded openly, leaving them with no option but to pay if they wish to continue working and meet their daily needs. 

He identified several locations that are currently among the worst affected, including Hafeezpet BPCL, IOCL outlets at Alwin X Roads and Balanagar, HPCL near the IDPL company, and the BPCL station at Moosapet. According to him, the Kukatpally belt is facing a particularly severe pipeline-related shortage, with limited or no CNG supply at multiple pumps in that area. 

Salauddin further alleged that “almost all” operational CNG bunks are demanding extra money per vehicle, specifically impacting the auto drivers, cab drivers, and other gig workers who are already struggling with fuel uncertainty and reduced earnings. 

The union has blamed the crisis on poor planning and weak oversight by authorities. It has called for immediate intervention by the Telangana Civil Supplies Department and the Legal Metrology Department to ensure adequate CNG stock, monitor pricing practices, and take strict action against stations charging illegal fees. Drivers on the ground say the long waiting hours are not only affecting their income but also their physical health and mental well-being. Many report sleeping inside their vehicles near fuel stations, skipping meals, and cancelling trips due to fuel anxiety. For app-based drivers, missed trips often mean penalties or reduced ratings, compounding the financial hit. 

“This is not a minor inconvenience. This is a livelihood crisis,” Salauddin said, stressing that immediate corrective measures are essential to prevent further hardship. 

With CNG availability remaining uncertain over the next two days, drivers and unions alike are demanding swift government action to restore supply, curb exploitation, and ensure that the city’s transport backbone does not collapse under avoidable failures. 

We still do not know whether this shortage is due to a pipeline leak, supply disruption, or some other technical issue. What we do know is that drivers are suffering and are being forced to pay extra money illegally, and we demand immediate action 

Shaik Salauddin, Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union (TGPWU)