Bhatkal: The Bhatkal and Murdeshwar Auto Rickshaw Drivers’ Union on Thursday submitted a memorandum to the Tahsildar, expressing strong concern over the arbitrary hike in LPG prices and seeking immediate administrative intervention.

Union President Venkatesh Naik alleged that LPG bunk operators in the town have increased prices for auto rickshaws without any official government directive, citing tensions involving Iran, Israel and the United States as a pretext.

He said that until recently, LPG was supplied at a uniform rate of ₹63 per unit across all bunks in Bhatkal. However, prices now vary across outlets, with LPG being sold at ₹75, ₹76 and ₹85 per unit at different bunks, imposing an additional financial burden on auto drivers.

Naik said the sudden hike has adversely affected drivers, many of whom depend solely on the profession for their livelihood.

In the memorandum, the union urged the taluk administration to intervene, regulate LPG prices and ensure uniform rates across all gas bunks.

The union also cautioned that if prices are not reduced, it may be forced to revise auto rickshaw fares, which would directly impact commuters.

Calling for urgent action in the public interest, the union appealed to the authorities to address the issue at the earliest.

Sridhar Naik, Madhav Naik, Salim Mohammed Yusuf, Mubeen, Girish, Pramod, Manjunath, Ishwar, Gangadhar and Lokesh were present on the occasion, among others.