Fuel prices increased sharply across India on Friday after oil marketing companies raised petrol and diesel rates by nearly Rs 3 per litre. The latest hike pushed fuel prices close to record levels in several major cities and raised fresh concerns over inflation, transportation costs and household expenses.

Under the revised rates, petrol prices rose by up to Rs 3.14 per litre, while diesel prices increased by as much as Rs 3.11 per litre.

Fuel Prices Rise in Major Cities

In Delhi, petrol now costs Rs 97.77 per litre after a Rs 3 increase, while diesel prices climbed to Rs 90.67 per litre. In Mumbai, petrol prices rose by Rs 3.14 to reach Rs 106.68 per litre. Diesel prices also increased by Rs 3.11 and now stand at Rs 93.14 per litre.

Kolkata saw one of the steepest increases. Petrol prices jumped by Rs 3.29 to Rs 108.74 per litre, while diesel prices rose by Rs 3.11 to Rs 95.13 per litre. In Chennai, petrol prices increased by Rs 2.83 to Rs 103.67 per litre. Diesel rates went up by Rs 2.86 and reached Rs 95.25 per litre.

Petrol and Diesel Become Costlier Nationwide

After the revision, regular petrol prices across India now range between Rs 94.77 and Rs 97.91 per litre, depending on state taxes and local charges. Premium petrol has become even more expensive and now costs between Rs 105.14 and Rs 107.14 per litre in several cities.

Diesel prices have also increased significantly. Regular diesel now sells between Rs 87.67 and Rs 90.78 per litre across different states.

Global Oil Prices Behind the Increase

The fuel price hike comes amid rising international crude oil prices and ongoing geopolitical tensions in West Asia. These developments have increased pressure on global energy markets and pushed up input costs for oil companies.

Oil marketing companies said they had no choice but to pass on part of the higher costs to consumers.

India imports a large share of its crude oil requirements and remains the world’s third-largest oil importer and consumer. Until recently, the government and oil companies had absorbed much of the increase in global crude prices to shield consumers from a sudden rise in fuel costs.

However, the latest hike signals growing pressure on both oil marketing firms and the government as international energy prices continue to climb.

Impact Likely on Daily Expenses and Transport

Experts believe the increase could affect household budgets across the country. Higher diesel prices are expected to raise freight costs because diesel remains the main fuel used in the transport and logistics sectors.

The agricultural sector could also face additional pressure due to increased transportation and operational costs. Public transport fares may also rise in the coming weeks if fuel prices remain high.

PM Modi Calls for Fuel Conservation

The sharp rise in fuel prices came only days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged citizens to reduce fuel consumption and help conserve India’s foreign exchange reserves. During a series of appeals on Sunday, Modi asked people and businesses to restart work-from-home practices and use online meetings wherever possible to reduce fuel demand.

“In the current situation, we must place great emphasis on saving foreign exchange,” the Prime Minister said.

He also encouraged people to use public transport systems, including metro rail services, and asked commuters to adopt carpooling whenever possible.

Modi Urges Cut in Imports and Consumption

Apart from fuel conservation, Modi appealed to citizens to avoid unnecessary foreign travel for at least one year. He also urged people to reduce purchases of imported products, especially gold, which sees high demand during the wedding season.

The Prime Minister additionally asked households to reduce edible oil consumption and urged farmers to cut fertiliser use. He described these steps as economically necessary and important for the country at a time of rising import bills.

His remarks came when India was still protecting consumers from the full impact of rising global crude prices. Friday’s sharp increase in petrol and diesel rates now reflects the growing strain on India’s energy management strategy and oil marketing companies.