Fuel prices rise over Rs 3 in Raj amid supply concerns

Jaipur: Petrol became costlier by Rs 3.25 per litre and diesel by Rs 3.02 per litre Friday, adding extra burden on the consumers and triggering anxiety over fuel availability amid escalating tensions in the Gulf region.With the latest revision by the oil marketing companies, petrol price in Jaipur rose from Rs 104.72 per litre to Rs 107.97 per litre, while diesel increased from Rs 90.21 per litre to Rs 93.23 per litre.The steep hike comes at a time when global crude oil markets remain volatile due to growing geopolitical tensions in the Gulf, a region critical to global oil supplies.Industry representatives said fears of supply disruptions and higher import costs have started reflecting in domestic fuel prices.The price rise also coincides with concerns over fuel supply in Rajasthan. Rajasthan Petroleum Dealers Association (RPDA) has alleged that oil marketing companies have reduced fuel allocations to petrol pumps and imposed restrictions on sales. In a communication to oil companies, the association claimed that several petrol pumps are facing shortages due to lower supplies from depots.Dealers also alleged that informal caps have been imposed on fuel sales to consumers and bulk buyers, creating panic among transporters and commercial users.

The association warned that if supplies are not normalised immediately, the situation could lead to crowding at petrol pumps and law and order issues. Petrol pump operators said maintaining mandatory minimum stock levels has become difficult due to reduced allocations.The RPDA further sought clear written guidelines from oil companies regarding fuel supply and bulk diesel sales, stating that confusion in the market is increasing amid fears linked to the Gulf crisis and rising crude oil price.