Hike in petrol, diesel prices soon? PM Modi’s energy security hint triggers fresh speculation

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Fuel prices

Petrol, diesel prices to rise in India: Prime Minister Narendra Modi's appeal to the citizens to reduce fuel consumption amid global energy supply disruption triggered by the West Asia conflict has sparked fresh speculation over whether the government could be planning to hike petrol and diesel rates if the crisis deepens.

Petrol, Diesel Prices In India Today, May 11

Even as the global crude markets remain on edge amid West Asia tensions and disruptions to major shipping routes, petrol and diesel prices across India held steady today, May 11.

CityPetrol (Rs/Litre)Diesel (Rs/Litre)
New Delhi94.7787.67
Hyderabad107.4695.70
Kolkata105.4592.02
Mumbai103.5490.03
Bengaluru102.9692.40

Meanwhile, government sources told ET NOW that state-run oil marketing companies (OMCs) are facing pressure from rising global crude oil prices, leading to under-recoveries on the sale of petrol and diesel. The matter has reportedly been discussed at the highest levels, with officials closely monitoring the impact of elevated crude prices on fuel retailers.

Sources indicated that the possibility of a hike in petrol and diesel prices cannot be completely ruled out at this stage. Discussions are underway between the Finance Ministry, the Petroleum and Natural Gas Ministry, and oil marketing companies to assess the situation and evaluate possible options.

PM Modi's appeal to cut down fuel use

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged citizens to cut down on fuel consumption, prefer public transport and avoid unnecessary foreign travel amid the ongoing economic and energy challenges. Stressing the need to conserve foreign exchange, he also called for greater use of work from home, video conferencing and carpooling practices.

He said, "use petrol and diesel judiciously and reduce unnecessary fuel consumption. In cities with metro connectivity, people should prefer public transport. If travelling by car is unavoidable, carpooling should be encouraged instead of driving alone."

"There is also a need to revive practices such as work from home, video conferencing and online meetings. Amid the current crisis, conserving foreign exchange must remain a priority," PM Modi said, adding, "the trend of destination weddings and foreign vacations among the middle class has also been rising. During this period, overseas travel should be avoided or postponed for at least a year."

On the impact of West Asia conflict, he said, "when the supply chain continues to be in crisis, no matter what measures we take, the difficulties only increase. Therefore, now we must fight unitedly, keeping the country and Mother India first. We must remember that patriotism is not just about dying for the country. Living for the country and fulfilling our duties to the country is also patriotism."

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