Petrol, Diesel Prices Rise Again in Punjab and Chandigarh for Second Time in 5 Days; CNG Rates Hiked by Up to ₹1.73

May 19, 2026

Chandigarh: Petrol and diesel prices have been increased for the second time within five days in Punjab and Chandigarh, adding further pressure on consumers and farmers alike. Alongside fuel prices, CNG rates have also gone up by ₹1.73 per kilogram. Earlier, on May 15, oil companies had already raised petrol and diesel prices by ₹3 per liter.

Fresh Fuel Prices in Punjab and Chandigarh

In Ludhiana, petrol prices increased from ₹101.11 to ₹101.98 per litre, registering a hike of 85 paise. Diesel prices rose from ₹90.90 to ₹91.79 per litre, up by 89 paise.

Premium fuel variants have also become costlier. “Power Petrol” in Ludhiana now costs ₹111.36 per litre, up from ₹110.50.

In Chandigarh, petrol prices climbed from ₹97.27 to ₹98.12 per litre, while diesel prices rose from ₹85.25 to ₹86.09 per litre. “Extra Petrol” rates also increased from ₹106.01 to ₹106.87 per litre.

Why Are Fuel Prices Rising?

The latest increase in petrol and diesel prices is being linked to the sharp rise in international crude oil prices. Before tensions escalated between Iran and the United States, crude oil was trading near $70 per barrel. It has now reportedly crossed the $100 per barrel mark.

With crude becoming costlier, oil marketing companies have been facing mounting pressure and losses, leading to repeated hikes in fuel prices. Experts warn that if crude oil prices continue to rise globally, petrol and diesel rates in India may witness further increases in the coming weeks.

Punjab Farmers to Face Massive Financial Burden

The rise in diesel prices is expected to hit Punjab’s farming sector particularly hard during the ongoing paddy season.

According to estimates from the Petroleum Planning and Analysis Cell, nearly 189 crore litres of diesel are consumed in Punjab during the four-month paddy season. Due to the latest hike, farmers are expected to bear an additional burden of around ₹748 crore this season alone.

On average, nearly 90 liters of diesel are used per acre for irrigation and field preparation. This means an extra expenditure of approximately ₹280 per acre for farmers. Punjab’s 5.5 lakh tractors, all dependent on diesel, will further increase the financial strain on the rural economy, potentially adding an annual burden of nearly ₹1,000 crore.

Reports suggest that Punjab’s farmers may now face an additional expense of nearly ₹3 crore every day because of higher diesel prices.

Prices of Essential Commodities Likely to Increase

The impact of rising diesel prices is expected to extend beyond agriculture and transportation. Higher freight charges may increase the prices of vegetables, fruits, groceries, and other daily-use items transported from different states.

Transportation costs for buses, autos, and school vehicles may also rise, increasing the burden on common households.

PM Modi Appeals for Controlled Fuel Consumption

During a recent event in Telangana, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged citizens to use petroleum products carefully in view of the geopolitical tensions in West Asia.

He emphasized that petrol, diesel, and gas should be used only as required to help save foreign exchange reserves and reduce the economic impact of the ongoing global crisis.