Fuel Price in India Today: City-Wise Petrol and Diesel Price with Daily Impact on Common Man

Petrol and Diesel Price in India Today: City-Wise Rates That Shape Daily Lives

For millions of Indians, the sound of a scooter starting or the bus arriving at the stop is more than just routine — it’s a reflection of affordability, routine, and responsibility. And at the heart of this daily rhythm is fuel price — a factor that not only impacts household budgets but also the cost of everything from vegetables to transportation.

As of May 9, 2025, here’s a detailed look at the latest city-wise petrol and diesel prices in India and how fluctuations in fuel costs continue to touch lives across the nation.

Today’s City-Wise Fuel Prices in India

Note: Prices are subject to daily revision based on global crude oil rates, rupee valuation, and local taxes.

Fuel Prices — A Daily Budget Balancer for the Common Man

Every rupee added to the price of petrol or diesel sends ripples across the life of a middle-class Indian. Auto-rickshaw drivers, delivery agents, farmers, and daily commuters feel the brunt of rising fuel costs immediately.

Imagine a vegetable vendor in Jaipur who covers 10 km every day to buy wholesale vegetables — a minor increase in diesel means less profit and ultimately, higher prices for customers. Or a working mother in Chennai who commutes by car — a jump of ₹2/litre means reshuffling monthly expenses to make ends meet.

Fuel isn’t just fuel — it’s livelihood, mobility, and dignity.

The Emotional Impact of Price Hikes

It’s not just an economic matter. Many families silently suffer the effects of rising fuel prices. Weekend outings get cut, children’s school pick-ups are switched from personal vehicles to public transport, and essential travel is postponed.

Ravi, a delivery rider in Bengaluru, shares: “Each rupee increase in petrol reduces my income. I used to earn ₹800 a day — now it barely touches ₹650 after fuel costs.”

Such stories echo across India — they reflect how deeply the fuel economy is tied to human emotions and aspirations.

What Causes Fuel Price Fluctuations?

Fuel prices in India are revised daily under the dynamic pricing system, which reflects:

• Global crude oil prices

• INR to USD exchange rate

• Excise duty by the central government

• VAT imposed by state governments

• Dealer commission

That’s why prices differ from city to city, depending on state taxes. For instance, Hyderabad and Mumbai often report the highest rates due to higher VAT, while Delhi and Ahmedabad offer comparatively lower prices.

Government Policies and Relief Measures

The central and state governments occasionally announce excise duty cuts to offer relief. In 2024, the government slashed duties temporarily to stabilize prices before the festive season. But these measures are often short-term.

There are growing calls from civil society and economists for uniform fuel pricing or bringing fuel under GST, which could bring more predictability and transparency.

How Can Citizens Cope With High Fuel Prices?

While prices may not always be in our hands, here are a few ways citizens are adapting:

• Carpooling and ride-sharing among office-goers

• Opting for electric vehicles (EVs) and bicycles

• Using public transportation

• Conscious trip planning to reduce unnecessary travel

Some state governments are also incentivizing electric vehicles, which could reduce dependence on conventional fuels in the long run.