Delhi Sees Significant Fuel Price Hike: Premium Petrol and LPG Costs Surge
Fuel Prices on the Rise in Delhi
New Delhi: Fuel prices in the capital have experienced another increase, primarily impacting premium users, with broader implications expected from April 1. The Indian Oil Corporation, a state-owned oil firm, has significantly raised the cost of its premium petrol, XP100, from Rs 149 to Rs 160 per litre. This high-performance fuel is predominantly utilized in luxury vehicles and superbikes, meaning that affluent car owners will bear the brunt of this price hike. Concurrently, the price of the premium diesel variant, Xtra Green, has also risen from Rs 91.49 to Rs 92.99 per litre.
Although the company has not provided an official rationale for this increase, it is widely speculated that escalating global crude oil prices and heightened transportation expenses, particularly due to ongoing tensions in Iran, are contributing factors.
Wider Implications from April 1
The more pressing issue extends beyond just premium petrol. The cost of commercial LPG cylinders has surged significantly, with a 19-kg cylinder now priced at Rs 2,078.50 in Delhi, up from Rs 1,768.50 on March 1. This represents an increase of over Rs 300 in just one month, which will likely impact hotels, restaurants, and small businesses, leading to higher costs for dining out and various services.
Additionally, jet fuel (ATF) prices have skyrocketed, more than doubling to Rs 2.07 lakh per kilolitre, marking the highest price ever recorded. This surge is expected to result in increased flight ticket prices for travelers. In summary, while the hike in premium petrol primarily affects a limited demographic, the substantial increases in LPG and jet fuel prices are poised to affect everyday expenses starting April 1, leading to higher costs for food, travel, and services.