In a time when inflation is already straining household budgets, Kolkata residents faced another financial jolt with a sudden increase in petrol and diesel prices. Unlike the rest of the country, where fuel prices remain stable, Kolkata saw a price hike of 6 paise per liter. This increase brings petrol to ₹105.01 and diesel to ₹91.82 per liter in the city.
Why Only Kolkata?
The disparity raises questions: why did this price hike affect Kolkata specifically? Sources indicate that the increase is due to local factors rather than global crude oil prices or national policy changes. This localized adjustment aims to standardize fuel prices across various regions.
Local Factors Behind the Increase:
The primary reasons cited for this price adjustment include:
- Dealer Commission Adjustment: The recent hike reflects an effort to harmonize dealer commissions across different regions.
- Transport Cost Adjustments: Transporting fuel from depots to retail outlets incurs varying costs, leading to regional price differences. The current hike addresses these discrepancies.
A Nationwide Trend?
Interestingly, Kolkata is not alone. Cities like Mumbai and Ranchi also witnessed marginal increases, whereas Chennai saw a 10-paise reduction in petrol prices. These adjustments are part of a broader strategy by oil companies to balance regional price variations.
Impact on Consumers:
Although the increase appears minor, it adds to the existing financial burden. With global crude oil prices declining, consumers expected a price reduction, not an increase. This has led to widespread frustration and calls for transparency in pricing mechanisms.
Expert Opinions:
Prosenjit Sen, Executive President of the West Bengal Petroleum Dealers Association, stated that the hike aims to resolve price discrepancies among pumps. He emphasized that the change ensures uniform pricing within Kolkata and its suburbs, which have historically faced inconsistencies.
Future Plans for Uniform Pricing:
The government plans to implement a uniform pricing strategy across West Bengal. This would mean balancing minor regional differences in transport costs to stabilize fuel prices. However, questions remain about how uniform pricing can be achieved given the logistical challenges of varying transportation costs.
Conclusion:
The recent price hike in Kolkata reflects broader efforts to address regional disparities. While the increase may seem small, it raises important questions about fuel pricing transparency and the need for consumer relief during tough economic times.