If you thought the festival season would only bring sweets and lights, think again—your fuel bills are getting their own share of surprises. Yes, petrol diesel rate continue to fluctuate, and as of 12 October 2025, commuters across India are already noticing the pinch (or the relief, depending on your city).
To be fair, it’s not entirely unpredictable. Petrol diesel rate are revised daily at 6 AM by oil marketing companies (OMCs), taking into account crude oil rates in the international market and the ever-dynamic dollar-rupee exchange rate. These small shifts, though seemingly minor, add up and directly affect our wallets.
Today’s Petrol Diesel Rate in Major Metro Cities
Here’s what your tank will cost today:
| City | Petrol (₹/L) | Diesel (₹/L) |
|---|---|---|
| New Delhi | ₹94.72 | ₹87.67 |
| Mumbai | ₹104.21 | ₹90.03 |
| Kolkata | ₹103.94 | ₹92.02 |
| Chennai | ₹100.85 | ₹92.48 |
| Bangalore | ₹99.84 | ₹91.04 |
| Hyderabad | ₹107.46 | ₹95.70 |
| Chandigarh | ₹94.24 | ₹82.45 |
| Jaipur | ₹105.40 | ₹90.21 |
| Lucknow | ₹94.58 | ₹87.81 |
| Patna | ₹91.80 | ₹91.80 |
Interestingly, prices in Hyderabad and Jaipur remain among the highest, while Patna sees relatively lower petrol costs—though diesel is surprisingly equal to petrol there. It just goes to show how local taxes and transport costs can change the numbers significantly.
Why Petrol and Diesel Prices Fluctuate
If you’ve ever wondered why the pump keeps surprising you, it boils down to a few key factors:
- Crude oil prices in the global market
- Dollar-rupee exchange rate
- Taxes, including excise duty and state VAT
- Transportation and refining costs
- Supply-demand balance
On the other hand, government interventions, like the tax reductions in May 2022, have helped keep prices from going completely haywire. So, when you hear “petrol and diesel prices drop,” it’s often a mix of global trends and policy tweaks rather than pure luck.
What the Recent Drop Means for You
With Diwali and Chhath just around the corner, a slight dip in fuel prices is welcome news. Whether you’re planning a long drive to visit family or just topping off your scooter tank, every rupee saved counts.
It’s also a reminder of how our everyday lives are intricately linked to international markets. One day’s crude oil fluctuation halfway across the world can subtly change your morning commute. Kinda wild, isn’t it?
Petrol Diesel Rate Excise Duty: The Silent Player
Excise duty often doesn’t make headlines, but it’s one of the main reasons why fuel costs are what they are. This tax, levied by the central government, can be adjusted to either soften or increase the burden on consumers. States also add their own VAT, creating that patchwork of city-to-city price differences you see above.
FAQ
Q1: Will petrol diesel rate drop further before Diwali?
Probably, but it’s hard to predict. Daily revisions depend on crude oil and exchange rate fluctuations.
Q2: Why are prices higher in some cities than others?
Local taxes, transportation costs, and dealer commissions cause differences between metro cities.
Q3: Does the government monitor fuel price changes?
Yes. Daily price updates by OMCs ensure transparency and avoid confusion for consumers.
Q4: Can I save money by filling fuel at a specific time?
Not really. Prices are revised uniformly across the country at 6 AM, so timing doesn’t create a big advantage.
To wrap up, the petrol and diesel rollercoaster isn’t likely to slow down any time soon. For now, enjoy the small relief if your local rates dropped, and remember that these fluctuations are part of the bigger picture—global markets, government policies, and yes, even your daily commute. Diwali lights are near, but so are daily fuel updates. Keep an eye on the numbers and plan your tank accordingly.
