Residents of Bhubaneswar faced another blow on Saturday as fuel prices registered a fresh increase, pushing petrol rates beyond the Rs 106 mark and further intensifying concerns over rising living expenses.
The latest nationwide fuel price revision led to an increase of 87 paise per litre in petrol prices and 91 paise per litre in diesel prices in the Odisha capital. This is the third hike in fuel rates within the last 10 days, adding pressure on commuters, transport operators and middle-class households already dealing with inflation and higher daily expenses.
Petrol Reaches Rs 106.33 Per Litre in Bhubaneswar
Following the latest revision, petrol in Bhubaneswar is now retailing at Rs 106.33 per litre, while diesel prices have climbed to Rs 97.92 per litre.
Before the latest hike, petrol was priced at Rs 105.44 per litre and diesel at Rs 96.95 per litre in the city. Premium speed petrol has also become more expensive, rising from Rs 114.56 to Rs 115.47 per litre.
The repeated upward revisions in fuel prices have emerged as a major concern for office-goers, two-wheeler riders, cab operators and families dependent on private transport for everyday commuting.
Commuters and Transport Operators Voice Concern
Many residents expressed frustration over the continuous rise in petrol and diesel prices, saying it is severely affecting household budgets and transportation expenses.
A significant section of the population in Bhubaneswar relies heavily on motorcycles, scooters and private vehicles for daily travel. Auto-rickshaw drivers and app-based cab operators fear that the increasing fuel costs may reduce their already shrinking earnings.
Transport sector representatives also warned that higher diesel prices could eventually increase transportation charges, leading to a rise in the prices of vegetables, groceries and other essential commodities in local markets.
Several consumers pointed out that repeated fuel price revisions within short intervals are making financial planning increasingly difficult, especially at a time when food prices, electricity bills and utility expenses are already high.
Fuel Prices Increase Across Major Indian Cities
The latest hike has not been limited to Odisha alone, as fuel prices have risen in several major cities across the country.
In New Delhi, petrol prices have reached Rs 99.51 per litre, while diesel is being sold at Rs 92.49 per litre.
Similarly, in Kolkata, petrol prices rose to Rs 110.64 per litre and diesel to Rs 97.02 per litre.
In Mumbai, petrol is now retailing at Rs 108.49 per litre, while diesel costs Rs 95.02 per litre.
Meanwhile, Chennai recorded petrol prices at Rs 105.31 per litre and diesel at Rs 96.98 per litre.
Third Fuel Price Hike Within 10 Days
The latest revision marks the third fuel price increase within a span of just 10 days, triggering growing concern among consumers over persistent fluctuations in petrol and diesel rates.
While the impact is being felt across India, the effect has been particularly significant in Bhubaneswar, where petrol prices have once again crossed the Rs 106 mark. The continued rise is expected to place additional financial strain on thousands of residents who depend on fuel for daily transportation, work and livelihood.
