Amid a scarcity of CNG, lengthy queues of auto-rickshaws line up at a filling station in Hyderabad. Picture used for illustration function solely. | Photograph Credit score: The Hindu
Three auto drivers had been detained after climbing a cellular tower throughout protests over CNG and LPG scarcity in Hyderabad, resulting in tense scenes and heavy police deployment on Sunday (March 29, 2026) night time.
The incident occurred close to Pillar No. 294 on the PVNR Expressway in Shivarampally Jagir, the place a bunch of auto drivers staged a street protest, claiming that gas shortage had severely affected their livelihoods. Regardless of repeated assurances from the State authorities about sufficient provide, drivers mentioned that they had been ready in queues for hours with out success.
In keeping with the police, two drivers climbed atop a close-by cell tower as a part of the protest, triggering excessive drama on the spot. Police personnel had been deployed in massive numbers to handle the state of affairs and guarantee security. The three had been later introduced down safely and brought into custody.
The protests come amid experiences of panic refueling throughout the town, which has led to lengthy queues of as much as 1 to 2 km at a number of gas stations, notably in residential areas. They demanded that the authorities guarantee rapid and sufficient provide of CNG to forestall additional disruption.
In the meantime, Hyderabad police issued a site visitors advisory stating that congestion was noticed from Aramghar in direction of Mehdipatnam alongside the PVNR Expressway close to Pillar No. 294 as a result of protest. Commuters had been suggested to keep away from the stretch and use different routes.
Printed – March 30, 2026 08:53 am IST