MGL Announces Fresh CNG Price Increase Across Mumbai Region
In another blow to commuters and transport operators, Mahanagar Gas Limited has raised the retail price of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region by Rs 2 per kilogram.
The revised rates came into effect from midnight Thursday, taking the new CNG price in Mumbai and surrounding suburbs to Rs 84 per kg. The increase is expected to affect lakhs of vehicle owners who depend on CNG for daily travel and commercial transportation.
Global Energy Crisis Behind Latest Revision
The city gas distributor attributed the latest price adjustment to mounting pressure in international energy markets. According to the company, instability in West Asia and disruptions in global fuel supply chains have sharply increased gas procurement expenses.
Officials pointed to rising crude oil prices, dependence on costlier imported gas and the weakening of the Indian rupee against the US dollar as major reasons behind the decision.
The ongoing tensions involving Iran and the broader geopolitical uncertainty in the region have intensified volatility in fuel markets worldwide, leading to increased costs for energy companies.
Auto-Rickshaw, Taxi Operators Likely to Feel Pressure
The hike is expected to directly impact the operational expenses of Mumbai’s large fleet of CNG-run vehicles, including auto-rickshaws, taxis and commercial transport services.
Transport experts believe the increase may eventually place pressure on public transport fares if fuel prices continue to climb in the coming weeks.
Mumbai’s transport ecosystem relies heavily on CNG due to its lower emissions and historically cheaper operating cost compared to petrol and diesel.
Over 12 Lakh Vehicles Dependent on CNG in MMR
According to company estimates, nearly 12.8 lakh vehicles across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region currently operate on CNG fuel.
This includes approximately 4.7 lakh auto-rickshaws, over 1.6 lakh taxis and more than 5 lakh private vehicles. The fuel has long remained a preferred choice among daily commuters because of its affordability and cleaner environmental profile.
However, repeated price revisions over recent years have raised concerns among drivers and consumers who fear shrinking savings from switching to gas-based fuel systems.
Transport Sector Watching Fuel Market Closely
Transport unions and commercial vehicle operators are expected to monitor future price movements carefully as international crude oil markets remain volatile.
Industry observers warn that if geopolitical tensions in West Asia continue to escalate, energy prices could remain under pressure globally, potentially leading to additional revisions in domestic fuel rates in the near future.
