The Indian central government increased CNG prices in Delhi by Rs 2 per kilogram on Tuesday [1, 2].

This price surge impacts thousands of commuters and commercial drivers in the national capital who rely on compressed natural gas as a cheaper alternative to petrol and diesel. The hike comes as energy volatility increases across the region.

Following the latest adjustment, the cost of CNG in Delhi now stands at Rs 83.09 per kilogram [2, 3]. This represents the fourth time prices have been raised within a two-week period [3, 4].

The price adjustments extend beyond the capital. In Noida, Greater Noida, and Ghaziabad, the cost of CNG has risen to Rs 88.70 per kilogram [5]. Meanwhile, prices in Mumbai have reached Rs 84 per kilogram [5].

Government officials said the price increase is necessary to offset mounting losses faced by city gas distributors [6]. These financial pressures have intensified due to the war in Iran, which has disrupted global energy supply chains and increased the cost of sourcing fuel [6].

The frequent adjustments suggest a struggle to maintain stable pricing amid geopolitical instability. As the cost of energy fluctuates, the burden of these losses is being passed to the consumer to ensure the continued operation of gas distribution networks [6].

CNG prices in Delhi now stand at Rs 83.09 per kilogram

The rapid succession of price hikes underscores India's vulnerability to geopolitical shocks in energy-producing regions. By passing the cost of disrupted supply chains directly to consumers, the government is prioritizing the financial solvency of gas distributors over price stability for the public.