Fuel Prices Surge Again: Middle East Tensions Rise

Petrol and diesel prices have been revised upwards by approximately 90 paise per litre, marking a second increase in less than a week. These hikes coincide with escalating tensions in the Middle East, which have fueled speculation about potential fuel shortages.

However, Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) has firmly refuted these reports. The company clarified via X that claims of fuel shortages and supply disruptions are misleading and do not accurately represent the current situation. HPCL emphasized that fuel supply at its retail outlets is operating normally with consistent replenishment and uninterrupted service.

HPCL suggested that increased customer numbers and queues observed at some locations are primarily due to a seasonal surge in demand during May. Additionally, the company noted that customers are opting for HPCL stations due to higher prices at some private retail outlets.

As of May 21, 2026, petrol prices in New Delhi were Rs 98.64 per litre. In Kolkata, petrol cost Rs 109.70 per litre, and in Mumbai, it was priced at Rs 107.55 per litre. Chennai recorded Rs 104.57 per litre, Gurgaon Rs 99.38, Noida Rs 98.65, and Bangalore Rs 107.16.

Diesel prices in New Delhi were Rs 91.58 per litre. Kolkata's diesel price stood at Rs 96.07 per litre, and Mumbai's remained at Rs 94.08. Chennai registered Rs 96.21 per litre, Gurgaon Rs 92.01, Noida Rs 92.21, and Bangalore Rs 95.04.