Fuel prices across India saw little to no change on August 16, 2026, maintaining the stability observed since May 25. State-owned Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) had last adjusted prices on that date, increasing petrol by ₹2.61 per litre and diesel by ₹2.71 per litre.
Despite recent fluctuations in global crude oil prices, retail fuel costs for consumers in major Indian cities have held steady. This consistency offers a brief respite from the volatility often seen in the domestic fuel market.
Current Petrol and Diesel Rates in Key Indian Cities (August 16, 2026)
- Delhi: Petrol ₹102.12/litre, Diesel ₹95.20/litre
- Mumbai: Petrol ₹111.21/litre, Diesel ₹97.83/litre
- Kolkata: Petrol ₹113.51/litre, Diesel ₹99.82/litre
- Chennai: Petrol ₹107.76/litre, Diesel ₹99.55/litre
- Hyderabad: Petrol ₹115.69/litre, Diesel ₹103.82/litre
- Bengaluru: Petrol ₹111.68/litre, Diesel ₹99.56/litre
Petrol prices in cities like Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Kolkata continue to be above ₹110 per litre, while diesel remains below ₹100 in most cities, with Hyderabad being an exception.
Factors Influencing Fuel Prices in India
The retail price of petrol and diesel in India is a complex interplay of several factors, both international and domestic:
- International Crude Oil Prices: As India imports a significant portion of its crude oil, global market rates are the primary determinant of base fuel costs.
- Rupee-Dollar Exchange Rate: A weaker rupee makes crude oil imports more expensive, directly impacting retail prices.
- Government Taxes: Both central and state governments levy substantial taxes on fuel, contributing significantly to the final price consumers pay. These varying tax structures are a key reason for price differences across states.
- Transportation Costs: The expenses involved in transporting fuel from refineries to distribution points also factor into the retail price.
- Demand-Supply Dynamics: Local demand and supply conditions can also play a role in minor price adjustments.
Consumers are encouraged to check local rates as prices can vary slightly even within a state due to these factors.