CHITRADURGA, May 3: Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy Pralhad Joshi stated on Sunday that fuel distribution across India remains stable, despite significant pressure on global energy markets driven by escalating geopolitical tensions in West Asia and a sharp increase in crude oil prices.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that the union government is closely monitoring the evolving international situation and has implemented measures to ensure uninterrupted fuel availability nationwide. Minister Joshi affirmed that India’s fuel supply network is functioning smoothly, even as international markets experience volatility due to disruptions in global energy supply chains.
“The rise in gas prices is linked to developments in the international market and fluctuations in crude oil prices globally. Despite these challenges, fuel distribution in the country remains stable,” the Minister remarked.
Minister Joshi also attributed a portion of the fuel price increase to state-level taxation. He alleged that the Karnataka government had increased petrol and diesel prices on three occasions, further impacting consumers.
These remarks come amidst widespread concern over inflationary pressures, exacerbated by surging fuel and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) prices. Global crude oil prices have shown renewed volatility due to ongoing tensions in West Asia, fostering fears of further escalation in energy costs worldwide. Opposition parties have intensified their criticism of the central government on this issue.
MDMK leader Vaiko strongly criticized the substantial hike in commercial LPG cylinder prices, citing a Rs 993 increase for a 19-kg cylinder. He contended that this rise severely affects restaurants, tea stalls, hotels, and small businesses reliant on cooking gas.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi also addressed the government’s handling of the situation, claiming that commercial LPG cylinder prices had risen by Rs 1,380 since February, marking an 81 percent increase in just three months. He cautioned that petrol and diesel prices could see further hikes if global crude oil prices continue their upward trend.
Industry analysts have warned that persistently high crude oil prices could trigger a cascading impact across various sectors, including aviation and transportation. Elevated aviation turbine fuel costs are anticipated to increase operational expenditures for airlines, potentially leading to higher airfares and diminished profitability.
Notwithstanding the global uncertainty, the central government maintains that India’s energy supply position is under control, with adequate fuel stocks and stable distribution mechanisms in place.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
