Premium petrol price hiked to Rs 160 per litre
Fuel prices in India have seen selective changes, with premium fuels becoming costlier even as regular petrol and diesel rates remain steady.
In Delhi, the price of 100-octane petrol has jumped sharply by Rs 11 per litre, taking it from Rs 149 to Rs 160 starting April 1. Premium diesel has also become slightly more expensive, rising from Rs 91.49 to Rs 92.99 per litre. These fuels, which are used in high-performance vehicles, are priced higher due to better quality and added components.
The increase comes at a time when global crude oil prices have surged past $100 per barrel, compared to about $70 just a couple of months ago. Supply concerns linked to tensions in West Asia have also contributed to the rise in international oil prices.
The cost of regular petrol and diesel has not changed. In Delhi, they continue to be priced at Rs 94.77 and Rs 87.67 per litre, respectively. This stability follows a recent decision by the government to cut excise duty, bringing petrol duty down to Rs 3 per litre from Rs 13, and reducing diesel duty to zero from Rs 10.
According to the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, India currently has enough crude oil reserves, and steps have been taken to ensure adequate supply for at least the next two months. Authorities also said that refineries are functioning normally and there are no widespread shortages being reported.
At the same time, private fuel retailers have taken a different approach. Companies like Shell and Nayara Energy have raised prices of regular petrol and diesel in some cities to offset rising costs. For example, in Bengaluru, Shell outlets have reportedly increased petrol prices by over Rs 7 per litre and diesel by more than Rs 25 per litre.
Despite official assurances, there have been reports of long queues at petrol pumps in certain areas. Some regions have seen panic buying, with customers rushing to fill fuel tanks amid fears of shortages. In parts of Andhra Pradesh, a few stations have even limited fuel sales for commercial vehicles due to supply delays.
Dealer groups have also expressed concern over disruptions in fuel deliveries. While there is no nationwide shortage at present, they warn that continued delays could create temporary issues in some locations if not addressed quickly.
