Petrol and diesel prices have once again surged in Rajasthan, marking the fourth fuel price hike this month. In Jaipur, petrol prices have increased by Rs 2.82 per litre, while diesel prices have gone up by Rs 2.73 per litre, according to the Rajasthan Petroleum Dealers Association.
The latest revision has pushed petrol prices in Jaipur to Rs 112.66 per litre, up from Rs 109.84, and diesel prices to Rs 97.78 per litre from Rs 95.05. Across other major cities in Rajasthan, petrol prices have also seen upward revisions, with hikes ranging between Rs 2.82 and Rs 2.83 per litre.
In Kota, petrol prices have risen from Rs 109.38 to Rs 112.21 per litre, while Ajmer recorded an increase from Rs 109.48 to Rs 112.31 per litre, both reflecting a rise of Rs 2.83 per litre. Sikar now boasts the highest petrol price among the listed cities, with rates climbing from Rs 110.77 to Rs 113.59 per litre, an increase of Rs 2.82.
Udaipur has witnessed petrol prices moving up from Rs 110.66 to Rs 113.49 per litre, showing a hike of Rs 2.83 per litre. This marks the fourth fuel price increase in May, with previous hikes on May 23 and May 19, as well as a Rs 3-per-litre increase on May 15.
The continuous rise in fuel prices has sparked political reactions, with opposition parties urging the Rajasthan government to reduce the Value Added Tax (VAT) on petrol and diesel. Senior Congress leader Ashok Gehlot has called for an immediate reduction in VAT and road cess to shield citizens from severe inflation, accusing the BJP-led government of exploiting the public through increased fuel prices.
Experts warn that the fuel price hike could have a ripple effect on the economy, leading to increased freight charges that may elevate prices of essential goods like vegetables, fruits, and groceries transported from other states. Farmers might face higher operational costs, affecting food grain prices due to increased expenses on tractors and pumping sets. Public transport services, including buses, autos, and school transport, are also likely to see fare hikes in the near future.
