Delhi (Rajeev Sharma): Consumers across Delhi-NCR faced another increase in fuel expenses on Tuesday after compressed natural gas (CNG) prices were raised by ₹2 per kilogram, pushing the retail rate to ₹83.09 per kg. The latest revision adds to the ongoing rise in energy costs that has already impacted petrol and diesel users in recent weeks.
This marks yet another upward adjustment in CNG rates within a short span, reflecting sustained pressure on fuel retailers amid instability in international crude markets. Since the middle of May, CNG prices have been revised several times, steadily increasing the financial burden on private vehicle owners, cab operators and public transport services dependent on gas-powered fleets.
Earlier this month, the first increase of ₹2 per kg was implemented on May 15, followed by a ₹1 rise on May 17 and another ₹1 hike on May 23. With Tuesday’s revision, the cumulative increase has grown significantly over just a few weeks.
The price surge comes at a time when global energy markets remain volatile due to geopolitical tensions and disruptions in key oil transit routes. Rising import costs and fluctuations in currency exchange rates have further added to pricing pressure for domestic fuel suppliers.
Petrol and diesel rates have also witnessed repeated upward revisions over the same period. Retail prices in the national capital have climbed sharply following multiple hikes introduced by state-run oil marketing companies.
Officials indicate that public sector fuel retailers continue to face pricing challenges despite recent revisions, citing elevated procurement costs and operational losses. Industry experts believe that unless global crude prices stabilise, further increases in domestic fuel rates cannot be ruled out.
The latest hike is expected to affect daily commuters, transport businesses and commercial establishments that rely heavily on CNG as an economical alternative to conventional fuels. Economists warn that continued increases in energy costs could eventually influence transportation charges and contribute to broader inflationary pressure in the market.
