Guwahati: Residents of Guwahati are facing growing financial pressure after petrol and diesel prices were increased once again on Tuesday amid rising global crude oil prices linked to the ongoing Middle East conflict.
With the latest hike of around 90 paise per litre, petrol in Guwahati has climbed to ₹102.18 per litre, while diesel is now being sold at ₹93.48 per litre. Earlier on May 15, fuel prices had already been increased by ₹3 per litre. As a result, prices of both petrol and diesel have risen by nearly ₹3.90 within just five days.
The repeated increase has triggered concern and frustration among daily commuters, private vehicle owners, transport operators and middle-class families in the city. Many citizens said the rising fuel prices are directly affecting their household budgets and daily expenses.
People who travel regularly for work said the situation is becoming increasingly difficult. Auto-rickshaw drivers, delivery workers and small business owners expressed concern that higher fuel costs would reduce their earnings and force them to increase service charges. Many consumers expressed concern that the increase in petrol and diesel prices would soon impact the prices of essential commodities, vegetables, construction materials and transport services due to higher logistics costs.
Citizens also fear that the latest fuel price hike will soon lead to an increase in the prices of essential commodities, vegetables, transportation fares and other daily-use items due to higher transportation costs.
The hike comes amid rising crude oil prices in the international market caused by tensions involving Iran, Israel and the United States in West Asia. Concerns over possible disruption in oil supply routes have pushed global fuel prices upward. Economists believe the continued rise in fuel prices could further increase inflation and put additional pressure on common citizens already struggling with rising living costs.
