Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) prices in Delhi-NCR have been increased again by Re 1 per kg, taking the retail rate in Delhi to ₹80.09 per kg from May 17, marking the second hike in just 48 hours after a ₹2 increase earlier this week by Indraprastha Gas Limited (IGL).
The fresh revision comes amid rising global energy prices linked to the escalating conflict in West Asia and concerns over disruptions in crude oil and gas supply routes. The repeated hikes are expected to affect lakhs of commuters, cab drivers, auto-rickshaw operators and public transport users across Delhi, Noida, Ghaziabad and Gurugram, while Opposition parties have criticised the Centre over mounting fuel inflation.
Rising CNG Costs Add Pressure On Urban Mobility
Indraprastha Gas Limited announced that the revised rates came into effect from 6 am on May 17 across all its geographical areas. With the latest increase, CNG in Delhi now costs ₹80.09 per kg, while rates in Noida, Greater Noida and Ghaziabad have climbed to ₹88.70 per kg. In Gurugram, consumers are now paying ₹85.12 per kg. The company said the hike was intended “to marginally offset the impact of increase in input gas cost along with steep appreciation of USD”. IGL also maintained that CNG continues to offer up to 45 per cent savings compared to petrol and diesel-run vehicles at current fuel prices.
The sharp rise within two days has triggered concern among daily commuters and commercial transport operators who rely heavily on CNG because it has traditionally been more affordable and cleaner than conventional fuels. Auto-rickshaw unions and taxi drivers in Delhi-NCR warned that repeated hikes could eventually force fare revisions if fuel costs continue to rise. Public transport users also expressed worries online about the growing burden of everyday travel expenses at a time when food and household inflation remain high.
West Asia Conflict And Global Energy Volatility
The latest CNG revision follows a broader increase in fuel prices announced earlier this week, when petrol and diesel rates were raised by nearly ₹3 per litre after a gap of around four years. Reports suggest Brent crude prices have crossed $110 per barrel amid fears of prolonged instability in West Asia and potential disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil and gas shipping routes. Energy analysts believe India’s dependence on imported crude and gas is making domestic fuel markets increasingly vulnerable to geopolitical shocks.
Earlier this year, IGL had assured consumers that PNG and CNG supplies would remain uninterrupted despite volatility in global markets. The company cited the government’s Natural Gas Supply Regulation Order, which places domestic PNG and transport CNG in the highest priority category. However, officials also acknowledged that sustained global price pressures and currency fluctuations could continue impacting retail fuel pricing in the near term.
Political reactions have intensified following the repeated hikes. The Congress party attacked the Narendra Modi-led government over rising inflation, accusing it of failing to protect citizens from escalating fuel prices. Opposition leaders argued that back-to-back increases in petrol, diesel and CNG would have a cascading impact on transportation costs, delivery services and the prices of essential goods across urban centres.
Growing Concerns Over Inflation And Public Welfare
Economists have warned that rising fuel costs often trigger a wider inflationary cycle, particularly in metropolitan regions where transportation networks are closely tied to daily livelihoods. Experts say that while global conflicts and supply chain disruptions are beyond India’s direct control, transparent communication and targeted relief measures are necessary to prevent the burden from falling disproportionately on lower and middle-income households. Calls for greater investment in renewable energy, electric mobility and public transport infrastructure have also gained momentum amid concerns over long-term dependence on imported fossil fuels.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
The repeated increase in CNG prices highlights how deeply global conflicts can affect ordinary citizens far from the battlefield. While governments and energy companies may face genuine economic pressures, the impact is ultimately felt by working families, small transport operators and daily wage earners who depend on affordable mobility to sustain their livelihoods.
At a time of rising inflation, there is a growing need for policies that balance market realities with social protection, transparency and long-term sustainability. Affordable public transport and clean fuel access should remain a public priority, not just an economic calculation. How can India better protect ordinary citizens from global energy shocks while continuing its transition towards cleaner and more sustainable transport systems?
Also Read: How India’s ₹3 Fuel Hike Could Soon Hit Every Household Budget
Delhi CNG price crosses ₹80/kg: IGL's 2nd hike in 48 hours amid Hormuz crisis
— NationPress (@np_nationpress) May 17, 2026
Delhi CNG crosses ₹80/kg after IGL's second hike in 48 hours, now at ₹80.09/kg. Petrol hits ₹97.77 and diesel ₹90.67 as Strait of Hormuz tensions push crude past $100/barrel.… pic.twitter.com/UITT0xHKnA
