Consumers across India are facing higher energy costs as LPG, CNG, and PNG prices were revised on May 21, 2026. The increases come amidst a backdrop of rising global crude oil prices, largely influenced by ongoing conflicts in West Asia and the strategic Strait of Hormuz blockade, which significantly impacts international oil and gas shipments.
Reports indicate that CNG prices have seen multiple increases recently, including a Rs 2 per kg hike followed by another Re 1 per kg rise in Delhi. Petrol and diesel rates also climbed twice within a week, first by Rs 3 per litre and then by an additional 90 paise per litre. These adjustments aim to alleviate margin pressures on fuel retailers, who have been incurring substantial losses.
Reasons Behind the Price Adjustments
The primary driver for the recent fuel price hikes is the volatility in global crude oil markets. India, a major energy importer, relies heavily on shipments through routes like the Strait of Hormuz. Disruptions and geopolitical tensions in the West Asia region directly translate to increased import costs.
Oil companies are reportedly facing significant financial strain, with losses estimated at Rs 674 on each 14.2-kg LPG cylinder. Overall, these companies are incurring daily losses of approximately Rs 750 crore. While the price adjustments are calibrated to avoid a severe inflationary shock, industry experts anticipate some impact on broader inflation figures.
Latest LPG Cylinder Prices (May 21, 2026)
14.2 kg Domestic LPG Cylinder
- Delhi: ₹913
- Bengaluru: ₹915.50
- Hyderabad: ₹965
- Mumbai: ₹912.50
- Chennai: ₹928.50
- Kolkata: ₹939
19 kg Commercial LPG Cylinder
- Delhi: ₹3,071.50
- Bengaluru: ₹3,152
- Hyderabad: ₹3,315
- Mumbai: ₹3,024
- Chennai: ₹3,237
- Kolkata: ₹3,202
CNG and PNG Rates (May 21, 2026)
CNG Prices (per kg)
- Delhi: ₹80.09
- Bengaluru: ₹90
- Hyderabad: ₹97
- Mumbai: ₹83
- Chennai: ₹91.50
- Kolkata: ₹93.50
PNG Prices (per SCM)
- Delhi: ₹47.90
- Bengaluru: ₹52
- Hyderabad: ₹51
- Mumbai: ₹50
- Chennai: ₹50
- Kolkata: ₹50
Adding to the energy challenges, India is reportedly grappling with an LPG supply gap of 400,000 barrels per day. Data from Kpler cited by Nikkei India shows April's LPG imports at 377,620 barrels per day, a significant drop from 851,870 barrels per day in February when the Strait of Hormuz was fully operational without disruptions. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged citizens to use fuel judiciously, opt for public transport, and consider work-from-home options to manage consumption.