On September 20, 2026, commuters across India saw largely stable fuel prices, with petrol and diesel rates holding steady in most major metropolitan areas. This stability comes as Brent crude oil prices have dropped below $104 per barrel.
Nationally, the average price for petrol stands at ₹111.21 per litre, while diesel is priced at ₹97.83 per litre. These figures reflect a consistent trend over the past week, offering some predictability at the pump.
City-Specific Fuel Rates
While national averages provide a general overview, local taxes and transportation costs mean prices vary significantly by city. Here’s a breakdown of the latest rates in key Indian metros:
- Mumbai: Petrol is priced at ₹111.21 per litre, and diesel at ₹97.83 per litre.
- Delhi: Residents pay ₹102.12 per litre for petrol and ₹95.20 per litre for diesel, reflecting comparatively lower costs.
- Kolkata: Petrol costs ₹113.51 per litre, with diesel at ₹99.82 per litre.
- Chennai: The price for petrol is ₹107.76 per litre, and diesel is ₹99.55 per litre.
- Bengaluru: Petrol is available at ₹110.82 per litre, and diesel at ₹98.77 per litre.
- Hyderabad: This city records the highest metro rates, with petrol at ₹116.15 per litre and diesel at ₹104.23 per litre.
Factors Influencing Fuel Costs
Several global and domestic factors converge to determine the final price consumers pay for fuel. India's significant reliance on imported crude oil makes international market dynamics crucial.
- Brent Crude Prices: The recent dip of Brent crude below $104 per barrel has contributed to the current stability.
- Rupee-Dollar Exchange Rate: Fluctuations in the rupee against the US dollar directly impact the cost of crude oil imports. A weaker rupee increases procurement costs, which can translate to higher retail prices.
- Government Taxes: Both central and state governments levy substantial taxes on petrol and diesel, forming a significant portion of the retail price. These taxes are a primary reason for price disparities between states.
- Demand and Supply: Local demand-supply conditions and transportation expenses also play a role in setting retail rates.
Impact on Commuters
For daily commuters, the current stability means no immediate price shocks at the fuel stations. However, prices remain elevated compared to previous years. Consumers are encouraged to monitor local rates, as city-specific taxes can cause variations even within the same state.