Petrol, diesel rates likely to rise
The prices of petrol and high-speed diesel (HSD) are expected to increase by Rs2-3 per litre from Wednesday for the first fortnight of October, in line with fluctuations in global oil prices. According to official estimates, based on current tax rates, the ex-depot price of HSD may rise by about Rs2.50 per litre (around 1 per cent), while petrol is likely to go up by Rs1.90-2 per litre. Both products have already recorded a net increase of around Rs13 per litre since mid-May. At present, the ex-depot price of petrol stands at Rs264.61 per litre. Petrol is widely consumed in private transport, motorcycles, rickshaws, and small vehicles, affecting the daily expenses of middle- and lower-income groups.