In a startling move, the prices of compressed natural gas (CNG) have seen a significant hike in Delhi, as well as in several northern cities, with the latest increase of Re 1 per kg coming just two days after an earlier rise of ₹2. This adjustment now sets the cost of CNG in Delhi at ₹80.09 per kg, marking a notable milestone as it crosses the ₹80 threshold for the first time.
Indraprastha Gas Limited, the principal distributor of CNG in North India, announced that this price revision aims to “marginally offset the impact of increase in input gas costs” alongside the sharp appreciation of the US dollar against the Indian rupee. Despite the hike, the company reassured consumers that CNG remains a more economical option for vehicle operation, with savings of up to 45% compared to other fuel types available in the market.
The price adjustments are not limited to Delhi. In nearby Noida and Ghaziabad, CNG prices have soared to ₹88.70 per kg, while in Gurugram, the cost has risen to ₹84.12 per kg. The recent surge in CNG prices follows broader fuel price adjustments that took effect on Friday, which saw petrol and diesel prices increase by approximately ₹3 per litre. Currently, petrol is priced at ₹97.77 per litre, and diesel stands at ₹90.67 per litre in Delhi, reflecting the ongoing trend of rising fuel costs.
The backdrop of these price hikes is the continuously climbing global oil prices, which have been attributed to various geopolitical tensions and increased demand worldwide. This situation complicates the economic landscape for everyday consumers, particularly those reliant on CNG for transportation. With the festive season approaching, these increases could impact the budgets of many households as they plan for travel and celebrations.
As the situation unfolds, consumers will be keeping a close watch on the further fluctuations in fuel prices and their implications. While the government has previously taken steps to stabilize fuel prices, the current global economic dynamics continue to pose challenges. The hope is that measures will be introduced to ease the burden on consumers, ensuring affordability while supporting the transition to cleaner energy alternatives.
