Fuel prices surged for the third time in 10 days as petrol and diesel rates increased across Tripura amid rising global crude oil costs linked to the West Asia conflict, intensifying financial pressure on middle-class families and raising fears of further inflation.
Consumers across Tripura faced another setback on Saturday after petrol and diesel prices were increased for the third time within just 10 days, intensifying concerns over rising household expenses and inflationary pressure. The latest revision by state-run oil marketing companies comes amid a steep rise in global crude oil prices triggered by ongoing tensions and instability in West Asia.
In Agartala, the price of petrol increased by Rs 0.87 per litre, taking the retail price to Rs 99.51 per litre. Diesel prices also witnessed a rise of Rs 0.91 per litre, pushing the rate to Rs 92.49 per litre, according to local fuel dealers. The latest increase follows an earlier hike of Rs 3 per litre this month, along with another revision of nearly 90 paise per litre just days later.
The continuous rise in fuel prices has placed additional financial strain on middle-class and low-income families already struggling with higher costs of essential commodities. Transport operators, small businesses, and daily commuters are also expected to feel the impact as transportation costs are likely to rise further in the coming days.
Fuel prices in India had largely remained stable since April 2022, except for a one-time reduction announced in March 2024. Oil marketing companies had earlier suspended regular daily revisions to shield consumers from volatile international markets following the Russia-Ukraine conflict. However, the recent spike in global crude oil prices has forced retailers to resume upward revisions.
According to market analysts, India’s crude oil basket has jumped sharply from nearly $69 per barrel in February to around $113–114 per barrel currently. Since India imports almost 90 percent of its crude oil requirements, domestic fuel prices remain heavily dependent on international oil market movements.
Experts have warned that continued geopolitical tensions, especially around the Strait of Hormuz, may further disrupt global oil supply chains and keep crude prices elevated. If the instability persists, consumers may witness additional increases in petrol and diesel prices in the coming weeks.
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The repeated fuel price hikes are also expected to impact inflation, as higher transportation and logistics costs often lead to increased prices of food items, consumer goods, and essential services across the country.
