Fuel Prices Hold Steady Across India on April 18
Petrol and diesel prices across India remained stable on April 18, 2026, offering a temporary reprieve to consumers. This pause in price adjustments comes amidst ongoing global crude market volatility, fueled by tensions in West Asia and disruptions to key international shipping routes. Domestic political sensitivities, particularly ahead of state elections, are also noted as a contributing factor to the current stability.
City-wise Fuel Prices (April 18, 2026)
Consumers in major metropolitan areas will find the following rates for petrol and diesel today:
- Delhi: Petrol at ₹94.77 per litre, Diesel at ₹87.67 per litre.
- Mumbai: Petrol at ₹103.50 per litre, Diesel at ₹90.03 per litre.
- Hyderabad: Petrol at ₹107.50 per litre, Diesel at ₹95.70 per litre.
- Kolkata: Petrol at ₹105.41 per litre, Diesel at ₹92.02 per litre.
- Bengaluru: Petrol at ₹102.96 per litre, Diesel at ₹90.99 per litre.
- Chennai: Petrol at ₹100.90 per litre, Diesel at ₹92.49 per litre.
It's important to note that while prices in Delhi remain below the ₹100 mark for both fuels, most other major cities, including Mumbai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Bengaluru, and Chennai, continue to see petrol prices above ₹100 per litre.
Factors Influencing India's Fuel Rates
The retail prices of petrol and diesel at the pump in India are determined by a complex interplay of several factors:
- International Crude Oil Prices: As the primary raw material, the global price of crude oil has the most significant impact on domestic fuel costs.
- Rupee-Dollar Exchange Rate: India heavily relies on imported crude. A weaker Indian Rupee against the US Dollar increases the cost of crude procurement, directly affecting retail prices.
- Government Taxes: Both central and state governments levy various taxes, including excise duty and Value Added Tax (VAT), which constitute a substantial portion of the final price. These varying tax structures are a key reason for price differences across states.
- Transportation Costs: The cost of transporting fuel from refineries to distribution points and then to retail outlets also adds to the final consumer price.
- Demand-Supply Dynamics: Local demand and supply conditions can also play a role in minor price adjustments.
Understanding these elements helps explain why fuel prices can fluctuate and differ significantly from one city or state to another across India.