1 February 2024
Sandeep Dhand ( Ludhiana)
In a development that adds to the woes of common citizens already grappling with inflation, oil marketing companies have raised the prices of 19 kg commercial gas cylinders. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s impending interim budget announcement only amplifies the concerns of the people.
As per information from the Indian Oil Corporation (IOCL) website, the prices have been revised upwards by Rs 14, effective February 1, 2024. Consequently, the cost of a commercial cylinder in the national capital, Delhi, has surged to Rs 1769.50. This marks a notable increase from the previous price of Rs 1755.50.
The impact is not limited to Delhi alone. In Kolkata, the price has risen from Rs 1869.00 to Rs 1887, while in Mumbai, where the cylinder was priced at Rs 1708, it will now be available for Rs 1723. Chennai, too, witnesses a hike, with the price ascending from Rs 1924.50 to Rs 1937.
This surge comes after a brief respite in January 2024, when oil marketing companies had reduced the prices of 19 kg commercial gas cylinders. The last reduction saw a drop in prices by Rs 1.50 to Rs 4.50. Post that adjustment, the price of a 19 kg cylinder was Rs 1755.50 in Delhi and Rs 1708 in Mumbai.
As citizens brace themselves for the Finance Minister’s interim budget presentation in Parliament, concerns about the economic landscape and affordability of essential commodities intensify. The trajectory of fuel prices continues to be a critical factor impacting household budgets, and any policy changes announced during the budget session will be keenly observed for their potential impact on the cost of living.
In the face of these economic challenges, citizens await measures that will address inflationary pressures and provide relief to their strained financial circumstances. The evolving economic scenario will be closely monitored in the coming days, with the hope that policy interventions can alleviate the burden on the common man.