BLITAR – Concerns over Pertalite shortages are growing among ride-hailing drivers in Blitar after a recent increase in Pertamax prices added pressure to their daily operating costs.
The impact of the non-subsidized fuel price adjustment has started to reach informal transportation workers across the region. Ride-hailing drivers say they face mounting challenges as income remains unpredictable while fuel expenses continue to increase.
The situation has become more difficult because several gas stations in Blitar have periodically run out of subsidized Pertalite fuel. As a result, many drivers have no option but to purchase the more expensive Pertamax.
“Sometimes gas stations in Blitar run out of Pertalite while waiting for new supplies. Because of that, I am forced to use Pertamax,” said Saiful Arifin, a ride-hailing driver from Tumpang Village in Talun District.
According to Saiful, the latest fuel price increase has directly affected his daily operating budget. Although he rarely uses Pertamax under normal circumstances, fuel shortages often force him to switch.
When fuel levels are low and nearby stations have no Pertalite available, drivers must spend more money to keep working. For many, stopping work is not an option because their income depends on daily passenger orders.
“Income is very unpredictable right now. When Pertalite runs out at gas stations in Blitar, I sometimes have to buy Pertamax. That is what worries us, and it clearly creates a financial burden,” he said.
Many drivers share similar concerns. They believe reliable access to subsidized fuel is just as important as affordable fuel prices. Supply disruptions can quickly increase transportation costs and reduce take-home earnings.
The issue comes at a time when many households already face rising living expenses. Drivers say higher prices for everyday necessities have made it harder to balance family budgets.
For workers in the informal sector, even small increases in operating costs can have a significant impact. Unlike salaried employees, ride-hailing drivers rely heavily on daily income generated through app-based transportation services.
Saiful urged both the central and local governments to pay closer attention to fuel availability in regional areas. He hopes policymakers will consider the challenges faced by lower-income workers who depend on subsidized fuel.
“My hope is that the government can provide more relief or greater certainty regarding fuel prices for middle- and lower-income groups like ride-hailing drivers. Rising operating costs at a time when income is uncertain place a heavy burden on our families,” he said.
As concerns over Pertalite shortages continue, many ride-hailing drivers in Blitar remain worried that unstable fuel supplies could further increase operating costs and put additional pressure on already fragile incomes.