Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) prices in Delhi-NCR increased by ₹1 per kilogram on May 17, 2024 [1], [3].
The rapid price escalation impacts thousands of commuters and auto-rickshaw drivers who rely on the fuel for affordable urban transport. These consecutive hikes place additional financial pressure on low-income transport workers in the national capital region.
Following the increase, the price of CNG in Delhi reached ₹80.09 per kilogram [1]. In Noida and Ghaziabad, the rate rose to ₹88.70 per kilogram [1]. This move represents the second price hike within a 48-hour window [4], following a previous increase of ₹2 per kilogram on May 15, 2024 [5].
Officials said the price surge was due to rising tensions in West Asia [2]. Specifically, the shutdown of the Strait of Hormuz has tightened global oil supplies, forcing domestic prices upward to reflect the volatile international market [2].
The Indian National Congress criticized the central government's handling of the situation. A Congress spokesperson said, "The move will worsen inflation and hamper economic growth."
Transport operators in the region have expressed concern over the frequency of these adjustments. With two hikes occurring in just two days, drivers are struggling to adjust their daily fares to maintain profit margins.
“CNG prices in Delhi reached ₹80.09 per kilogram”
The volatility of CNG prices in Delhi-NCR highlights India's vulnerability to geopolitical instability in West Asia. Because the Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint for global energy exports, any disruption there creates a ripple effect that immediately impacts retail fuel costs in India. This creates a precarious economic environment for the city's public transport infrastructure, where small price increments can lead to broader inflationary pressure on essential services.
