Bullock carts, donkeys & Cycles: VBA Holds Unusual Stir In Akola

Akola: In a symbolic protest against the rising prices of petrol and diesel, activists of the Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi took to the streets of Akola on Monday, carrying bullock carts, donkeys, horses, bicycles, and hand-pulled rickshaws, highlighting the growing burden of fuel costs on common citizens.The rally began at Tower Chowk and proceeded to the District Collector's office, drawing participation from farmers, women, and party workers in large numbers. Protesters deliberately chose non-motorised and traditional modes of transport to underline their message — that soaring fuel prices may push people back to pre-modern means of commuting.The demonstration stood out for its unique visuals: hundreds of bullock carts lined the roads, while others rode horses, donkeys, bicycles, or walked on foot.Participants said the idea was to demonstrate that if fuel continues to become unaffordable, citizens will be forced to abandon vehicles that are dependent on petrol and diesel.A senior participant said, "At 55, we never thought we would see the return of bullock carts in daily life. But rising fuel prices have reminded us of our childhood days."Corporator Parag Gawai rode a donkey during the protest, drawing attention from onlookers. Calling it a symbolic act, Gawai said, "If the government is asking people to save fuel, then perhaps this is the alternative. Even leaders should try such rides if fuel continues to get costlier."Farmers participating in the march warned that rising diesel prices would directly impact agricultural operations, especially with the upcoming kharif season.They pointed out that rising diesel price affects irrigation and farm machinery, thereby increasing fertiliser and input costs. This ultimately increases overall cultivation expenses. Women protesters highlighted the impact on household budgets, saying, "When fuel prices rise, everything becomes expensive. Even cooking becomes difficult."Organisers made arrangements for drinking water for both participating farmers and the animals involved in the rally, ensuring the protest continued smoothly despite the intense heat.The march culminated near the Collector's office, where a delegation of protesters submitted a memorandum against rising fuel prices, urging the central government to reconsider its pricing policies.Protesters argued that repeated hikes in fuel prices would trigger a ripple effect across sectors — from transportation to agriculture and daily needs — further burdening already distressed farmers in Vidarbha. "Farmers here are already struggling. This fresh wave of inflation will break their backbone," said one of the participants.