New Delhi: People across India woke up to another increase in petrol and diesel prices on Tuesday as fuel rates went up again for the second time within a week. The fresh rise of around 90 paise per litre has added to the worries of families, transport workers and businesses already struggling with the increasing cost of daily life.
The latest hike comes just days after oil companies raised fuel prices by nearly Rs 3 per litre. Together, the two increases have pushed fuel costs sharply higher in a short period, ending a long period during which prices had remained mostly unchanged.
In Delhi, petrol prices crossed nearly Rs 99 per litre while diesel prices moved above Rs 91 per litre. Similar increases were seen in Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai and several other cities. For many people who depend on private vehicles or public transport every day, the repeated hikes are becoming difficult to manage.
Auto drivers, taxi operators and delivery workers expressed concern over the rising expenses. Many said their daily earnings are shrinking because a large part of their income now goes toward fuel. Small business owners also fear that transportation costs will increase further in the coming weeks.
According to reports, state run oil companies decided to increase prices because of the sharp rise in global crude oil rates. International oil prices have climbed due to tensions in West Asia and fears of disruptions in major oil supply routes. India imports a large share of its crude oil from other countries, making local fuel prices heavily dependent on global markets.
Officials said oil companies had been facing heavy financial losses for several months as international prices continued to rise. Industry sources estimated that companies were losing hundreds of crores of rupees every day by selling fuel at lower prices. The recent hikes are seen as an effort to reduce those losses.
The increase has also sparked political criticism. Opposition parties accused the government of putting pressure on ordinary citizens at a time when inflation and unemployment remain major concerns. Some leaders questioned why fuel prices were not reduced earlier when global oil prices had shown signs of falling in previous months.
Economists warn that the impact of higher fuel prices could soon spread across the economy. Diesel is widely used for transporting goods, running buses, trucks and agricultural equipment. As transport costs rise, prices of vegetables, groceries and other essential items may also increase. Experts say this could add further pressure on household budgets.
Public transport operators in some states are already discussing possible fare revisions. Goods transport companies are also expected to review freight charges if fuel prices continue to rise in the coming weeks.
Despite growing public concern, government officials said there is no shortage of fuel supplies in the country. Petrol pumps continue to operate normally, and authorities have assured people that supplies remain stable.
Many citizens, however, fear that more increases could follow if global crude oil prices remain high. For families already balancing school fees, rent and food expenses, the rising fuel bill is becoming another heavy burden in everyday life.