Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) prices have been increased by Rs 1 per kg from Saturday, adding to the cost burden for commuters and transport operators already grappling with rising fuel prices across the country.
The latest hike comes alongside another round of increases in petrol and diesel prices across major metropolitan cities, pushing fuel rates higher amid continued volatility in global energy markets linked to tensions in West Asia.
According to sources, petrol prices in Delhi rose by 87 paise to Rs 99.51 per litre from Rs 98.64, bringing the national capital within touching distance of the Rs 100 mark. Diesel prices in the city also increased by 91 paise to Rs 92.49 per litre.
Kolkata recorded one of the sharpest increases among the metros. Petrol prices there climbed by 94 paise to Rs 110.64 per litre, while diesel rose by 95 paise to Rs 97.02 per litre.
Petrol, diesel prices rise across metros
In Mumbai, petrol became costlier by 90 paise and is now retailing at Rs 108.49 per litre. Diesel prices in the financial capital rose by 94 paise to Rs 95.02 per litre.
Chennai too saw fresh increases, with petrol prices going up by 82 paise to Rs 105.31 per litre and diesel by 87 paise to Rs 96.98 per litre.
The Rs 1 per kg increase in CNG prices is expected to directly impact daily commuters using auto-rickshaws, taxis and private CNG vehicles. Public transport operators in cities such as Delhi and Mumbai, where large numbers of buses and cabs run on CNG, are also likely to feel the pressure.
Global energy tensions continue to impact fuel rates
Fuel prices in India are linked to international crude oil and natural gas rates, currency movements and local taxes. Rising tensions in West Asia and concerns over global fuel supplies have continued to keep crude oil and gas prices unstable, putting pressure on fuel rates in India as well.
The fresh hike in petrol, diesel and CNG prices is likely to increase transportation and logistics costs in the coming days.