Fuel prices in India have remained unchanged since May, with petrol and diesel rates stable despite fluctuations in global crude oil prices. On September 18, the highest petrol price was recorded in Chittoor, Andhra Pradesh at ₹118.34 per litre, while the lowest was in Port Blair at ₹88.66 per litre. Diesel prices show a similar pattern, with Chittoor at ₹106.06 per litre and Port Blair at ₹84.56 per litre.
Today’s Fuel Prices
Benchmark Delhi petrol sells for ₹102.12 per litre and diesel for ₹95.20 per litre. Compared to Delhi, Chittoor petrol is ₹16.22 more expensive and diesel ₹10.86 more expensive. Meanwhile, Port Blair offers petrol ₹13.46 cheaper than Delhi and diesel ₹10.64 cheaper.
Price Variation Across Cities
India’s petrol prices vary significantly due to local taxes, transportation costs, and state levies. The difference between Chittoor and Port Blair petrol exceeds ₹29 per litre. Diesel shows a ₹21.50 per litre gap between the same cities. These variations reflect diverse state policies and dealer commissions across the country.
Reasons for Price Stability
Despite global crude oil volatility, domestic petrol and diesel rates have been steady since May. The government adjusts excise duties and subsidies to shield consumers from international price shocks. This stabilization policy aims to control inflation and maintain affordable transportation costs for citizens.
Global Crude Oil Factors
Brent crude traded around $103.77 per barrel, down $1.05, amid the Iran-US conflict. Supply concerns eased as Saudi Arabia repaired the damaged East-West pipeline to restore half its capacity. Oil tankers continue to transit the disputed Strait of Hormuz, keeping markets cautious about potential disruptions.
What Determines Pump Prices?
The final pump price includes more than just crude oil costs. Refining expenses, transportation, distribution, local taxes, VAT, excise duty, and government subsidies all contribute. Hence, identical crude oil prices can yield different retail rates in various countries due to differing fiscal policies and operational costs.
Historical Price Trends
According to GlobalPetrolPrices data, India’s average petrol price from 2016 to now is ₹91.10 per litre, with a peak of ₹112.97 on April 11, 2022. Diesel averaged ₹81.27 per litre over the same period, reaching a high of ₹100.55 on April 11, 2022. Current prices remain below these historical peaks.
