Indian consumers are facing another increase in fuel prices, with state-run oil marketing companies raising petrol and diesel rates across major metro cities for the second time in less than a week.
The latest revision comes days after fuel prices were increased by ₹3 per litre, signalling continuing pressure on the government and oil retailers amid volatile global energy markets.
According to an official from the oil ministry, public sector oil companies are still losing nearly ₹750 crore per day on the sale of petrol, diesel and liquified petroleum gas despite the earlier hike.
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Fresh fuel rates across metro cities
Following the latest revision, petrol in Delhi now costs ₹98.64 per litre, up by 87 paise, while diesel has risen to ₹91.58 per litre after an increase of 91 paise.
In Mumbai, petrol prices climbed to ₹107.59 per litre and diesel reached ₹94.08 per litre.
Kolkata recorded some of the highest rates among metro cities, with petrol touching ₹109.70 per litre and diesel rising to ₹96.07 per litre.
In Chennai, petrol is now priced at ₹104.49 per litre, while diesel costs ₹96.11 per litre.
The fresh increase comes amid continuing concerns over rising crude oil prices linked to tensions in West Asia and disruptions around global energy supply routes.
Government signals more revisions may follow
Union petroleum minister Hardeep Singh Puri had earlier indicated that fuel prices may need further revision as oil companies struggle to absorb rising import costs.
Speaking at a Confederation of Indian Industry event, Puri said the government would eventually have to take a call on balancing consumer relief with mounting financial pressure on oil retailers.
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The latest hike also follows Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent appeal to conserve fuel and foreign exchange reserves, including suggestions for work-from-home arrangements in select sectors.
Meanwhile, Punjab chief minister Bhagwant Mann criticised the Centre over the price revision, alleging that fuel prices had been artificially controlled during elections before the burden was shifted back onto consumers.
With global crude prices remaining elevated, market analysts believe additional revisions in petrol and diesel prices may remain a possibility in the coming weeks.
