Petrol and Diesel Prices For millions of Indians, the day begins not with a cup of tea but with a glance at fuel prices. Whether you’re a daily commuter, a small business owner, or a homemaker managing household budgets, petrol and diesel rates now play a central role in shaping decisions. On August 4, 2025, fuel prices remain a pressing concern — not just economically, but emotionally too.
Today’s Petrol and Diesel Prices in Major Indian Cities
Here are the latest fuel prices for today, Monday, August 4, 2025 (in ₹/litre):
| City | Petrol (₹/litre) | Diesel (₹/litre) |
|---|---|---|
| New Delhi | ₹96.72 | ₹89.62 |
| Mumbai | ₹106.31 | ₹94.27 |
| Kolkata | ₹106.03 | ₹92.76 |
| Chennai | ₹102.74 | ₹94.33 |
| Bengaluru | ₹101.94 | ₹87.89 |
| Hyderabad | ₹109.66 | ₹97.82 |
| Patna | ₹107.24 | ₹94.56 |
| Jaipur | ₹108.48 | ₹93.72 |
| Lucknow | ₹96.76 | ₹89.86 |
| Ahmedabad | ₹96.42 | ₹91.59 |
Why Fuel Prices Hit the Heart of India
More Than Just a Number
When a litre of petrol or diesel gets expensive, it doesn’t just pinch the pocket — it affects the mood of the entire household. A small delivery van owner in Mumbai shared, “Every time I see the meter rise, my hope dips a little. It’s not just fuel. It’s food, education, and survival.”
Domino Effect on Cost of Living
Rising Petrol and Diesel Prices (fuel costs) directly impact transportation, leading to costlier vegetables, fruits, dairy, and even online deliveries. For salaried individuals, budgeting becomes harder as inflation eats away savings.
Why Do Petrol and Diesel Prices Change Daily?
Fuel prices in India are revised every day at 6 AM, based on global crude oil trends and foreign exchange rates. Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) like Indian Oil, Bharat Petroleum, and Hindustan Petroleum adjust prices accordingly.
Factors influencing fuel prices:
Crude oil cost per barrel in the international market
INR vs USD exchange rate
Excise duty, VAT, and local state taxes
Refining, freight, and dealer commissions
Government’s Balancing Act
Centre vs State Tax Pressure
The central government levies excise duty on Petrol and Diesel Prices while states impose VAT. Despite global oil prices showing some softness, fuel costs haven’t dropped drastically due to this dual taxation.
People are increasingly demanding a rationalized tax system. In fact, several states have urged the Centre to bring fuel under the GST regime to control inflation and ease the public burden.
Public Reaction – A Blend of Frustration and Resilience
Across social media, Indians have voiced their frustration using trending hashtags like #FuelPriceHike, #PetrolDieselRates, and #MiddleClassCrisis.
Yet, amidst the frustration, India adapts — carpooling, switching to electric scooters, reducing weekend trips, and even biking to work. One college student in Bengaluru commented, “I now bike 7km to class every day. It saves money and keeps me fit. That’s my little protest.”
Is Relief in Sight?
Economists believe a global slowdown in oil demand and stronger INR could bring some relief in the coming months. However, without tax restructuring, significant price drops remain unlikely.
The government’s push for electric vehicles (EVs), public transport expansion, and ethanol blending might help reduce long-term fuel dependency, but for now, the middle class continues to bear the brunt.
Conclusion: The Pulse of a Nation at the Fuel Pump( Petrol and Diesel Prices)
Fuel prices today are not just about numbers — they’re about emotions, sacrifices, and everyday survival. As the nation waits for real relief, each rupee increase at the petrol pump reflects a deeper story of endurance, frustration, and silent strength.
Let’s hope tomorrow brings more than just lower fuel prices—it brings a breath of relief to every hardworking Indian juggling rising costs and shrinking budgets. It’s not just about saving a few rupees at the pump; it’s about lightening the emotional load on families, workers, and students. A hopeful change in fuel rates could mean restored confidence, renewed energy, and a small victory for a nation that never stops moving forward.
