Guwahati, May 15: Petrol prices crossed the Rs 100-per-litre mark in Guwahati on Friday after oil companies announced a fresh hike in fuel rates, adding to the burden on commuters and middle-class households already grappling with rising living costs.
Oil companies increased petrol and diesel prices by around Rs 3 per litre across the country amid rising global energy prices linked to the ongoing conflict in West Asia.
At Goswami Service petrol pump in Silpukhuri, petrol prices climbed from Rs 98.20 to Rs 101.21 per litre, while diesel rates rose from Rs 89.42 to Rs 92.50 per litre.
Santanu Baishya, manager of the fuel station, said the hike was significant but unlikely to reduce overall fuel demand immediately.
“Earlier, petrol was Rs 98.20 and now it has increased by Rs 3.01 to Rs 101.21. Diesel has gone up from Rs 89.42 to Rs 92.50, an increase of Rs 3.08,” Baishya told reporters.
“We have not seen much public reaction yet because people still need fuel for their daily travel. Even if prices rise further, people will continue to buy petrol and diesel as there are limited alternatives,” he added.
According to Baishya, some consumers may try to cut down on unnecessary travel, but daily commuters have little choice other than absorbing the additional cost.
The price rise has triggered concern among residents, many of whom fear further hikes in the coming weeks.
Biraj Saha, a local resident, said he filled up his vehicle fearing that prices may rise again soon.
“The increase is huge. Earlier petrol was below Rs 100 and now it has crossed Rs 101. I filled my tank today because fuel prices may go up further. People will now have to reduce unnecessary trips and depend more on public transport,” he said.
Another resident, Nirmal, said the continuous increase in fuel prices was putting pressure on ordinary citizens.
“It is becoming very difficult for the common man. But people cannot stop using vehicles completely. They still need their cars and bikes for work and daily activities,” he said.
The latest revision has once again brought focus on the impact of global crude oil volatility on household expenses, transportation costs, and inflation in the country.
