Patna: The central government has reduced excise duty on petrol and diesel, but the move has yet to translate into lower retail prices, leaving consumers disappointed.
Under the revised structure, excise duty on petrol has been cut from Rs 13 per litre to Rs 3, while diesel duty has been reduced from Rs 10 to zero. However, fuel prices have remained largely unchanged across several cities, including Patna.
On March 27, petrol in Patna was priced at Rs 105.54 per litre, while diesel stood at around Rs 91.78 per litre, with no significant fluctuations reported in recent days.
Analysts said global crude oil prices and state-level taxes, including value added tax (VAT), continue to influence retail rates, limiting the immediate impact of central tax cuts.
Prices of cooking gas have also remained steady. A 14.2kg domestic LPG cylinder is priced at Rs 1,002.50, while a 19kg commercial cylinder costs Rs 2,133.50. However, supply constraints in some areas have added to consumer concerns.
Compressed natural gas (CNG) continues to be a relatively cheaper alternative, with prices in Patna at Rs 87.90 per kg. Demand for CNG has remained strong, driven by lower costs and environmental benefits.
Experts said fuel prices are determined by a combination of international crude rates, taxation and decisions by oil marketing companies, making immediate price reductions unlikely.
Officials said any significant relief for consumers would depend on a sustained fall in global crude oil prices, with the situation being closely monitored.
