Concerns regarding diesel supplies have mounted globally, driven by rising crude oil prices and a contraction in global supply. This situation is now impacting the Indian market. The price of bulk diesel—fuel used primarily in the industrial sector—has increased by ₹14.60 per liter in the country. However, there has been no hike in the price of diesel sold to ordinary consumers at petrol pumps.
Nevertheless, if price pressures on diesel and crude oil persist in the international market, it could impact the transport sector and the prices of essential commodities. According to media reports, the price of bulk diesel has now reached ₹153.57. There is a significant price difference between bulk diesel and the diesel available at regular fuel stations. In New Delhi, the price of regular diesel at outlets owned by state-run oil companies stands at ₹95.64 per litre.
Given this situation, bulk diesel consumers have started purchasing diesel from regular fuel stations instead. This trend is likely to drive up the demand for diesel at these pumps. Currently, oil companies are incurring daily losses exceeding ₹500 crore. There are concerns that if these companies raise fuel prices, it will impact the transport sector and lead to a rise in the prices of essential commodities.
