Shillong, May 24: Hikes in the rates consumers pay for petrol, diesel and cooking gas (LPG) are now an “unbearable burden” on Meghalaya’s farmers, daily wage earners and small businesses, the Hynniewtrep Youths’ Council (HYC) said in a press release today as it demanded immediate government intervention.
Domestic LPG cylinders now cost over Rs 1,000 each while the price of petrol recently broke the Rs 100 per litre mark in Shillong.
HYC president Roy Kupar Synrem said rising fuel costs have pushed up transport charges and prices of essential goods, while costlier cooking gas is squeezing households already battling inflation.
“Fuel and cooking gas are basic necessities, not luxury items. The government cannot remain a silent spectator,” Synrem said.
The HYC urged the state to review taxes and levies on fuel, seek special subsidies for Meghalaya and engage central authorities to protect consumers.
It warned that public frustration is steadily growing and urged the government to act without delay before the situation worsens further.
