Compressed natural gas prices in Delhi and nearby cities have been raised once again, taking the total increase over the past 10 days to Rs 4 per kg. With the latest revision, CNG in Delhi will now cost Rs 81.09 per kg, while consumers in Noida, Ghaziabad, and Greater Noida will pay Rs 89.70 per kg.
The fresh hike comes amid continuing stress in global energy markets following escalating tensions in the Middle East and disruptions linked to the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil transit route.
The latest increase follows an Rs 2 hike on May 15 and another Re 1 revision on May 18, signalling sustained pressure on domestic fuel pricing.
NCR commuters likely to feel the impact
According to NDTV, the repeated rise in CNG prices is expected to directly affect public transport costs across Delhi-NCR, where a large number of buses, taxis and auto-rickshaws run on the cleaner fuel. Transport operators are likely to pass on the higher operating costs to commuters, potentially contributing to inflationary pressure in the region.
Apart from Delhi, revised CNG prices now stand at Rs 86.12 per kg in Gurugram and Rs 90.44 per kg in Ajmer. Industry observers say that while CNG has long remained a cheaper alternative to petrol and diesel, the recent sharp upward revisions could begin narrowing that gap for consumers.
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Oil companies under severe financial strain
State-run oil marketing companies have reportedly been absorbing massive losses due to the spike in crude oil procurement costs.
According to NDTV, Indian Oil Corporation Limited, Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited, and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited are together facing daily losses of nearly Rs 1,600 crore as they continue purchasing crude at elevated international prices. Despite the mounting burden, the Centre has so far avoided a major nationwide fuel price shock in an attempt to keep retail inflation under control. However, with global supply concerns intensifying, oil companies have gradually started passing on a part of the cost burden to consumers through phased increases.
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Middle East tensions driving global fuel uncertainty
According to NDTV, the ongoing instability surrounding the Strait of Hormuz has emerged as a major factor behind rising fuel prices worldwide. The strategic route handles nearly one-fifth of global oil shipments, making any disruption a serious concern for import-dependent countries like India. The government has already signalled concern over fuel consumption and rising import bills. Last week, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged citizens to conserve fuel and encouraged remote work wherever possible to reduce unnecessary commuting and energy usage.
