Thaindian News

New Delhi, Sep 15 (IANS) Vehicle owners in the national capital were Thursday left aghast as oil firms effected yet another hike in petrol prices by more than Rs.3 per litre - barely three months after the last raise.

“Another hike? At this rate, I will just have to abandon riding my bike. Is that what the government wants - for people to stop driving their cars and bikes?” a stunned Sandeep Sharma, a student, asked.

“How can the common man sustain with so many hikes at such close intervals?” reacted Sunil Kumar, a media professional.

India’s oil retailing companies Thursday decided to hike the price of petrol by Rs.3.14 a litre from midnight. The last hike was effected in May this year when the petrol price was raised by Rs.5 per litre.

“I will get my car re-fuelled tonight itself…before the hike is implemented. It won’t be permanent, but at least I will be relieved as long as that fuel lasts! But I am sure there will be long queues outside all petrol pumps,” said Sarita Verma, a professional.

Radhika Minoch, a student, said that in a way these hikes will encourage people to use public transport.

“The hike is not good news for vehicle owners, but in a way it’s a good thing. People will now be encouraged to use public transport. So that’s good news for the environment!” she said.