Gas distributor Indraprastha Gas Limited (IGL) once again hiked the prices of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) on Tuesday. This marks the fourth price hike in less than two weeks, placing an increased burden on common consumers and motorists dependent on CNG.
In Delhi, the price of CNG has now risen to ₹83.09 per kg, up from the previous rate of ₹81.09 per kg. Prices have also been increased in other cities across the National Capital Region (NCR). In Noida, Ghaziabad, and Greater Noida, CNG is now available at ₹91.70 per kg, while in Gurugram, the price has reached ₹88.12 per kg. In Ajmer, the price has climbed to ₹92.44 per kg.
Petrol and Diesel Also Become More Expensive
Coinciding with IGL’s announcement, state-owned oil marketing companies (OMCs) have also hiked the prices of petrol and diesel for the fourth time.
– Delhi: Petrol ₹102.12/liter (↑₹2.61), Diesel ₹95.20/liter (↑₹2.71)
– Kolkata: Petrol ₹113.51/liter (↑₹2.87), Diesel ₹99.82/liter (↑₹2.80)
– Mumbai: Petrol ₹111.21/liter (↑₹2.72), Diesel ₹97.83/liter (↑₹2.81)
– Chennai: Petrol ₹107.77/liter (↑₹2.46), Diesel ₹99.55/liter (↑₹2.57)
Why Are Prices Rising?
According to experts, the primary reasons behind the continuous rise in prices are high crude oil rates in the international market, ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, and growing uncertainty regarding supply. Domestic currency exchange rates and tax policies are also playing a role in this trend.
Impact on the Common Man
The continuously rising prices of CNG, petrol, and diesel are set to drive up the costs of transportation, logistics, and daily commuting. This will have a direct impact, particularly on drivers of auto-rickshaws, taxis, buses, and commercial vehicles in cities like Delhi and Mumbai. Transport operators warn that rising operational costs could lead to an increase in fares—a burden that will ultimately fall upon the common consumer.
The government had provided some relief in March by reducing excise duty; however, due to global factors, local prices are spiraling out of control. It remains uncertain, for the time being, when this trend of rising prices will finally come to a halt. Consumer organizations are demanding immediate government intervention to address the persistently rising inflation.
