Petrol, Diesel prices jump ₹3 per litre amid govt push to cut imports

State-run oil companies on Friday raised petrol and diesel prices by ₹3 per litre, pushing fuel rates higher across major cities and increasing pressure on household budgets. The revision came only days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged citizens to reduce fuel consumption and help conserve foreign exchange.

In Delhi, petrol prices climbed from ₹94.77 to ₹97.77 per litre. Diesel rates also moved up from ₹87.67 to ₹90.67. Similar increases appeared across Kolkata, Mumbai and Chennai, although local taxes changed the final retail rates in each city.

At fuel stations in Delhi, many commuters reacted with frustration as they checked revised price boards early in the morning. Auto-rickshaw drivers discussed possible fare hikes, while delivery workers worried about shrinking daily earnings. Several two-wheeler owners asked attendants to fill fuel for smaller amounts instead of full tanks.

In Kolkata, petrol prices crossed ₹108 per litre after a jump of ₹3.29. Diesel also rose above ₹95. Mumbai recorded petrol prices near ₹107 per litre, while Chennai saw smaller but noticeable increases in both fuel categories.

The hike followed comments from Union Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri earlier this week. During an industry event in the national capital, Puri signalled that the government may soon revise petroleum prices because of global energy pressures and import costs.

Meanwhile, Modi continued to stress the need for economic caution. During public remarks earlier this week, he urged people to avoid unnecessary fuel consumption and reduce dependence on imported goods. He linked fuel savings with India’s foreign exchange stability and broader economic security.

India imports a large share of its crude oil needs. Because of that dependence, changes in global crude prices quickly affect domestic fuel markets. Currency fluctuations and transportation costs also influence retail prices.

Traders and transport operators now expect the latest revision to affect other sectors as well. Vegetable suppliers at wholesale markets in Delhi said transport expenses may rise within days. Taxi operators and logistics companies also predicted higher operating costs if fuel rates remain elevated.

Opposition parties criticised the timing of the increase and accused the Centre of placing extra financial pressure on ordinary families. Several leaders demanded tax relief on petrol and diesel to protect middle-class consumers and small businesses.

Oil companies, however, defended the decision and pointed to international crude trends and rising operational costs. Officials said companies must balance consumer demand with financial realities in the energy sector.

Friday’s increase immediately changed spending plans. Some commuters switched to public transport, while others reduced non-essential travel. At several petrol pumps, customers discussed one question repeatedly — whether more hikes could arrive in the coming months as global oil markets remain uncertain.