Ranchi: As petrol and diesel shortages continue to affect several parts of the country, concerns are growing among people in Jharkhand over rising fuel prices and limited transport alternatives. The debate intensified after Prime Minister Narendra Modi appealed to citizens to use public transport more frequently, avoid unnecessary travel and adopt a more resource-conscious lifestyle.
However, many residents in Jharkhand say such suggestions are difficult to follow due to the lack of adequate public transport infrastructure in the state. Unlike major metropolitan cities, Jharkhand does not have metro rail services, and bus connectivity remains inconsistent in several areas.
In the state capital Ranchi and nearby districts, people have reported long queues at petrol pumps, while some fuel stations are facing temporary shortages. Residents say they are left with little choice but to depend on private vehicles for office work, business, school, hospital visits and other daily needs.
Locals argue that the situation is especially difficult in rural and semi-urban areas, where public transport services are either limited or unreliable. Many families depend entirely on motorcycles and private vehicles for commuting, making fuel availability a crucial issue.
One resident said, “People cannot stop travelling when work and responsibilities continue. In Jharkhand, there is no metro system and public transport is not strong enough everywhere. Without petrol or diesel, daily life becomes extremely difficult.”
Citizens have demanded that the government ensure a steady fuel supply and take effective steps to control rising prices instead of relying only on public advisories. Many believe the ongoing crisis is putting additional pressure on middle-class families and small traders already struggling with rising expenses.
Experts also warn that if the supply situation does not improve soon, the impact could be felt across transportation services, local markets and routine economic activities. For now, people in Jharkhand are waiting to see what measures the government takes to ease the growing concern over fuel availability and prices.