JAMMU: Prices of premium petrol variants have been increased by around ₹2–2.3 per litre across select cities, even as regular petrol and diesel rates remain unchanged nationwide.
The hike applies to high-octane fuels such as IndianOil XP95 sold by Indian Oil Corporation and “Power” petrol marketed by Hindustan Petroleum. According to dealer inputs, the revised rates have come into effect from Friday.
Why premium petrol prices are rising
The increase comes amid a sharp surge in global crude oil prices, with Brent Crude trading above $100 per barrel due to escalating tensions in West Asia and concerns over supply disruptions.
Additionally, the depreciation of the Indian rupee against the US dollar has made crude imports costlier for India, which relies heavily on imported oil. This has increased input costs for oil marketing companies such as Indian Oil Corporation, Hindustan Petroleum, and Bharat Petroleum.
Officials indicated that companies have opted for a selective price hike in premium fuels rather than revising widely used petrol and diesel prices.
“Only premium category petrol prices have increased. Prices of petrol and diesel have been deregulated, and any price hike is a corporate decision,” said Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas.
No change in regular fuel prices
Prices of regular petrol and diesel continue to remain stable across major cities such as New Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Chennai.
Fuel rates for standard petrol have remained unchanged for a prolonged period despite volatility in global markets, as authorities remain cautious about inflationary pressures.
What it means for consumers
For most consumers, the immediate impact is limited since regular fuel prices remain unchanged. However, users of premium petrol variants will see a marginal increase in their fuel expenses.
Experts say the move signals rising cost pressures in the fuel sector, and if crude oil prices continue to remain elevated, broader revisions in fuel prices may follow.
