Diesel prices across India have climbed sharply again, reflecting the growing pressure of international crude oil volatility and geopolitical instability in West Asia. The latest hike on May 23, 2026, marks the third fuel price increase in less than 10 days, pushing diesel rates in major metro cities to their highest levels since 2022.
India, which imports more than 85% of its crude oil requirements, remains highly vulnerable to disruptions in global energy markets and the ongoing tensions around the Strait of Hormuz, through which nearly one-fifth of global oil trade passes, have significantly increased import costs for oil marketing companies.
Domestic Fuel Prices (India) – 23 May 2026
- Petrol: ₹99.51 per litre
- Diesel: ₹92.49 per litre
- Domestic LPG (14.2 kg): ₹913.00 per cylinder
- Commercial LPG (19 kg): ₹3,071.50 per cylinder
- CNG: ₹77.09 per kg
- PNG: ₹47.90 per SCM
New Delhi Diesel Prices
Diesel prices in New Delhi increased by 91 paise to ₹92.49 per litre from ₹91.58 and since May 15, diesel prices in the capital have risen by nearly ₹5 per litre.
Mumbai Diesel Prices
Mumbai recorded diesel prices at ₹95.02 per litre following a 94-paise increase while transporters in the financial capital are warning of higher freight charges.
Chennai Diesel Prices
In Chennai, diesel prices rose to ₹96.98 per litre after an 87-paise revision while southern logistics operators are expected to face additional operational pressure.
Bangalore Diesel Prices
Diesel prices in Bangalore continue to remain elevated due to local taxation structures and increased transportation demand across Karnataka.
Hyderabad Diesel Prices
Hyderabad is among the costliest cities for fuel and CNG while commercial vehicle operators are particularly affected by diesel and gas price inflation.
Kerala Diesel Prices
Kerala continues to witness above-average diesel prices because of state-level tax variations and high transportation costs across districts.
Kolkata Diesel Prices
Kolkata recorded the highest diesel price among metro cities at ₹97.02 per litre after a 95-paise increase.
Pune Diesel Prices
Rising diesel rates in Pune are affecting delivery services, cab operators and industrial transportation across Maharashtra.
Ahmedabad Diesel Prices
Ahmedabad remains relatively stable compared to metro cities, though diesel-linked freight costs have started increasing.
Vadodara Diesel Prices
Fuel retailers in Vadodara have reported growing demand pressure as diesel prices continue their upward trend.
Odisha Diesel Prices
Odisha has witnessed moderate diesel increases, but transportation costs in rural areas are rising steadily.
Jaipur Diesel Prices
Jaipur’s diesel prices continue to reflect broader national trends, with logistics companies passing costs to consumers.
Lucknow Diesel Prices
Lucknow is experiencing increasing public transport and goods transportation expenses due to repeated diesel price hikes.
International Fuel Prices Today
Global crude oil prices have surged over 50% since late February amid escalating tensions involving Iran, Israel and disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz. Analysts warn that prolonged instability could trigger another global energy shock.
Fuel City-Wise Rate in India (Petrol, Diesel, CNG, LPG)
| City | Petrol (₹/L) | Diesel (₹/L) | CNG (₹/kg) | LPG Domestic Cylinder (₹) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Delhi | 99.51 | 92.49 | 77.09 | 903 |
| Mumbai | 108.49 | 95.02 | 81.00 | 902.50 |
| Chennai | 105.31 | 96.98 | 91.50 | 918.50 |
| Kolkata | 110.64 | 97.02 | 93.50 | 929 |
| Bangalore | 106+ | 94+ | 90.00 | 905.50 |
| Hyderabad | 107+ | 95+ | 97.00 | 955 |
| Pune | 107+ | 94+ | 92.50 | 906 |
| Ahmedabad | 96+ | 92+ | 82.25 | 910 |
| Jaipur | 105+ | 93+ | 90.91 | 906.50 |
| Lucknow | 104+ | 92+ | 95.75 | 940.50 |
| Vadodara | 97+ | 92+ | 83+ | 910 |
| Kerala (avg) | 107+ | 96+ | — | 912 |
| Odisha (avg) | 103+ | 94+ | — | 915 |
Diesel Rate in India for Last 10 Days
| Date | Delhi Diesel Price |
| May 23 | ₹92.49 |
| May 22 | ₹91.58 |
| May 21 | ₹91.58 |
| May 20 | ₹91.58 |
| May 19 | ₹91.58 |
| May 17 | ₹90.67 |
| May 16 | ₹90.67 |
| May 15 | ₹90.67 |
| May 14 | ₹87.67 |
| May 13 | ₹87.67 |
Diesel Rate in New Delhi, May 2026
| Details | Price |
| 1 May 2026 | ₹87.67 |
| 23 May 2026 | ₹92.49 |
| Highest Rate | ₹92.49 |
| Lowest Rate | ₹87.67 |
| Monthly Change | +5.50% |
Crude Oil (CLW00) Market Snapshot
Crude oil markets remain highly volatile as traders monitor Middle East developments closely as brent crude and WTI futures continue to fluctuate amid fears of tighter global supplies and restricted tanker movement.
Market Summary
India has witnessed three diesel price hikes within days:
- ₹3 increase on May 15
- 91-paise increase on May 19
- 91-paise increase again on May 23
Combined increases have pushed diesel prices nearly ₹5 higher this month.
The government has also urged fuel conservation measures as rising import bills place pressure on India’s foreign exchange reserves and current account deficit.
What This Means for Consumers
Higher diesel prices directly impact transportation, agriculture and supply chains. Since diesel powers most commercial vehicles and goods carriers in India, rising prices are likely to increase food costs, delivery charges and inflationary pressure in the coming weeks.
Small businesses, truck operators and public transport services are expected to face the biggest burden while economists also warn that if crude oil prices remain elevated above current levels, India could see broader inflation risks during the second half of 2026.