Diesel crisis hits AP transport hard; lorry owners struggle as prices pinch public

Vijayawada: The ongoing diesel shortage across Andhra Pradesh has pushed the transport sector into a deep crisis, with lorry owners bearing the brunt and the ripple effects now hitting common consumers. For the past four days, erratic diesel supply and panic buying have left hundreds of trucks off the roads, disrupting the movement of essential goods.In transport hubs like Vijayawada, rows of idle lorries paint a grim picture. Operators say they are unable to take up trips due to lack of fuel, leading to mounting financial losses. "We are forced to park our vehicles as diesel is simply not available. Every idle day means huge losses and loan burdens are piling up," said Kundeti Suresh Kumar, a lorry owner associated with the Andhra Pradesh Lorry Owners Association.Freight charges have surged sharply as limited vehicles struggle to meet demand. This has directly impacted the common public, with vegetable prices already rising by nearly 25% and essential commodities expected to follow suit. In markets, consumers are feeling the pinch. "Prices are increasing every day. Vegetables have become expensive overnight, and if this continues, it will be difficult for middle-class families to manage," said Koka Veena, a resident.The diesel crunch has also hit farmers hard. Supplies from Kurnool and Anantapur have slowed, while mango growers in Nuzvid fear heavy losses as produce remains stranded.With reserves reportedly lasting just a couple of days, lorry operators warn that unless immediate steps are taken to restore fuel supply, the crisis could further disrupt daily life and push prices even higher.