No New CNG Price Hike for Now Despite Rising Fuel Pressure
Mumbai’s CNG users received a short-term breather on Tuesday after city gas distributor Mahanagar Gas Limited decided against revising fuel prices, even as Delhi and NCR saw another increase in compressed natural gas rates.
The move comes amid continuing volatility in fuel markets and growing concern among transport operators over rising operational costs.
While Delhi-based Indraprastha Gas Limited increased CNG prices by Rs 2 per kg, pushing rates above Rs 83 per kg in the national capital, Mumbai’s CNG prices remained unchanged at Rs 84 per kg.
Auto Unions Renew Demand for Fare Revision
Despite the pause in fuel price hikes, Mumbai auto-rickshaw unions have intensified calls for a fare revision following the earlier increase in CNG prices announced this month.
Transport representatives argue that higher fuel expenses, inflation and increasing maintenance costs have significantly affected drivers’ earnings across the city.
“The expenses on fuel have increased substantially for auto-rickshaw drivers. Inflation and higher Consumer Price Index levels have also affected daily running costs,” Mumbai Rickshawmen’s Union General Secretary Thampi Kurien had said while demanding a fare hike.
At present, Mumbai’s minimum auto-rickshaw fare remains Rs 26, with passengers paying Rs 17.14 per kilometre after the base fare. Union leaders claim the revised fuel costs justify an increase in the per-kilometre rate.
Fuel Price Hikes Raise Inflation Concerns
The latest fuel pricing developments arrive at a time when petrol, diesel and gas prices have experienced repeated revisions across several parts of the country over the past two weeks.
Industry observers say continued volatility in international crude oil and gas markets is putting pressure on domestic fuel retailers, raising fears of higher transportation costs and inflation in major urban centres.
Although Mumbai avoided a fresh hike this time, transport operators remain cautious about future revisions if global energy prices continue to climb.
Transport Sector Closely Monitoring Market Trends
Public transport operators and auto unions in Mumbai are now closely tracking developments in global fuel markets, anticipating possible future revisions in CNG prices.
