MP fuel price hike hits households as diesel crosses Rs 100 mark
The latest MP fuel price hike has pushed diesel prices beyond Rs 100 per litre in several cities of Madhya Pradesh, triggering fresh concerns over inflation, transport costs and household budgets. Oil marketing companies raised petrol prices by Rs 2.61 per litre and diesel by Rs 2.71 per litre on 25 May, marking the fourth increase in just 11 days.
In Bhopal, petrol now costs Rs 114.65 per litre, while diesel is retailing at Rs 99.74 per litre. Ujjain recorded the highest fuel prices among the state’s major cities, with petrol at Rs 115.03 per litre and diesel at Rs 100.11 per litre. Fuel prices also rose sharply in Indore, Gwalior and Jabalpur.
MP fuel price hike raises inflation worries
The repeated increase in fuel prices is expected to impact freight transport, agriculture and public transport fares across the state. Transporters warned that higher diesel prices could increase the cost of vegetables, fruits and essential commodities within days.
Farmers are also likely to face higher cultivation costs due to increased spending on tractors and irrigation pump sets. Public transport operators may revise bus and auto-rickshaw fares if diesel prices continue to rise.
“Rising fuel prices are directly affecting the common citizen and adding pressure on household budgets,” opposition leaders said after the latest revision.
Why fuel prices are rising in Madhya Pradesh
Industry experts linked the latest fuel revision to rising crude oil prices in the international market. Crude oil prices, which were around USD 70 per barrel before tensions escalated in West Asia, have now crossed USD 100 per barrel.
India imports nearly 90 per cent of its crude oil requirements, making domestic fuel rates highly sensitive to global prices and the rupee-dollar exchange rate. Fuel prices are revised daily under the dynamic pricing mechanism followed by oil companies.
The final retail price paid by consumers includes refining costs, dealer commission, central excise duty and state VAT. Madhya Pradesh levies comparatively higher VAT on fuel than several neighbouring states, resulting in higher petrol and diesel prices.
Public sector firms such as Indian Oil Corporation, Bharat Petroleum and Hindustan Petroleum are reportedly facing mounting pressure because of elevated crude oil prices.
Former Chief Minister Kamal Nath criticised the repeated hikes, accusing the government of burdening ordinary citizens with rising fuel costs.
For more coverage on inflation and fuel prices, visit Vision MP Madhya Pradesh.
