Compressed Natural Gas prices have been increased by Rs 1.50 per kg in Mumbai and the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, bringing the new rate to Rs 91.50 per kg. This latest adjustment is expected to add to the fuel expenses of private car owners, autorickshaw and taxi drivers, and app-based cab operators.
Mahanagar Gas Ltd announced the price revision, with the updated rates taking effect from Sunday. This change follows a comparable hike implemented in Pune and arrives amid growing anxiety among motorists and commercial transport operators regarding escalating fuel expenditures.
Since January, when CNG was priced at Rs 80.50 per kg, rates have climbed by Rs 11 per kg. This reflects an increase of roughly 14 percent over a span of less than 11 months, driven by eight separate upward revisions by Mahanagar Gas Ltd throughout the year.
The frequent price adjustments have created unease among individuals who rely on CNG vehicles for their daily travel and commercial livelihood. Public transport drivers face heightened operating pressures, while private commuters must allocate larger budgets for transportation.
Reflecting on the financial strain, a local consumer noted that ongoing price increases compound the overall cost of living during a period of widespread inflation. The commuter suggested that essential energy costs should ideally remain stable or decrease to ease public burdens rather than continuously rising.
Mahanagar Gas Ltd explained that the latest adjustment is necessary due to rising expenses associated with procuring natural gas. The firm pointed to the ongoing crisis in the Middle East, a decrease in domestic gas distribution quotas, and an increased reliance on costly imported alternatives as primary drivers.
According to the utility provider, the growing proportion of imported re-gasified liquefied natural gas, whose pricing aligns with global markets, has significantly strained procurement budgets alongside strong consumer demand.
The company stated that the adjustment transfers a fraction of the increased acquisition costs to end users, ensuring an uninterrupted and reliable supply of the fuel. At the same time, the supplier noted it is investigating methods to lower expenditures and pass savings along to consumers, while maintaining its support for natural gas as a cleaner energy alternative.
With the rate now established at Rs 91.50 per kg, motorists and commercial transport operators across Mumbai and neighboring districts must adjust to the heightened cost of operating their vehicles.