Petrol and Diesel Prices in India Today: A City-Wise Snapshot
Fuel prices in India are more than just numbers. For millions of families, daily wage workers, cab drivers, and logistics firms, the cost of petrol and diesel is deeply personal. As of May 26, 2025, the petrol and diesel rates vary from city to city due to state-level taxes and transportation charges. Here’s a comprehensive look at the current fuel rates and why they matter.
Current Petrol and Diesel Prices in Major Indian Cities (As of May 26, 2025)
Here are the petrol and diesel prices in key Indian cities today:
| City | Petrol (₹/Litre) | Diesel (₹/Litre) |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi | ₹96.72 | ₹89.62 |
| Mumbai | ₹106.31 | ₹94.27 |
| Chennai | ₹102.63 | ₹94.24 |
| Kolkata | ₹106.03 | ₹92.76 |
| Bengaluru | ₹101.94 | ₹87.89 |
| Hyderabad | ₹109.66 | ₹97.82 |
| Ahmedabad | ₹96.42 | ₹92.17 |
| Pune | ₹105.45 | ₹93.23 |
| Chandigarh | ₹96.20 | ₹87.86 |
| Jaipur | ₹108.48 | ₹93.72 |
(Note: Prices are subject to change based on local taxes and global crude oil rates.)
Why Fuel Prices Vary Across Indian Cities
State Taxes Play a Major Role
One of the biggest reasons for the difference in fuel prices across cities is state-level taxation. States levy Value Added Tax (VAT) on fuel, and this amount varies. For instance, Maharashtra and Rajasthan have some of the highest fuel taxes in the country, making fuel costlier in Mumbai and Jaipur.
Transportation Costs Affect Pricing
The farther a city is from oil refineries or ports, the higher the logistical costs involved in transporting fuel. These costs are ultimately passed on to consumers.
Local Levies and Octroi
In certain metropolitan areas, additional charges like local body tax (LBT) or octroi can be added, further increasing fuel prices.
Impact of Petrol and Diesel Prices on Daily Life
Fuel costs have a domino effect on the economy. Here’s how:
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Transportation Costs Rise: Higher diesel prices directly impact the cost of transporting goods, which can raise prices of everyday items, especially essentials.
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Public Transport Fares Increase: Auto rickshaws, taxis, and buses adjust their fares based on fuel costs, burdening daily commuters.
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Household Budgets Shrink: For middle-class families, every extra rupee spent on fuel means cutting down elsewhere.
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Inflation Concerns: Fuel price hikes contribute to cost-push inflation, where the overall price of goods and services increases.
How Are Fuel Prices Decided in India?
India follows a dynamic pricing model for petrol and diesel. This means prices are updated daily based on the global crude oil prices and foreign exchange rates.
H3: Who Sets the Prices?
Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) like Indian Oil Corporation (IOC), Bharat Petroleum (BPCL), and Hindustan Petroleum (HPCL) revise fuel rates every morning at 6 AM.
Tips to Save on Fuel in 2025
If you’re worried about high fuel costs, here are a few simple tips:
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Carpool or use public transportation whenever possible.
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Maintain your vehicle for better mileage.
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Use fuel comparison apps to find the cheapest nearby rates.
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Drive efficiently – avoid sudden braking or over-speeding.
