Fuel Prices cross Rs 100 in Tripura; Long queues and Protests follow

Tripura is facing mounting public frustration as petrol and diesel prices surged sharply on Friday, crossing the Rs 100 mark. The hike has triggered long queues at filling stations, protests in the capital, and allegations of artificial scarcity by fuel dealers.

Petrol now costs Rs 100.54 per litre, up by Rs 3.04, while diesel is priced at Rs 89.46 per litre, following a Rs 2.51 increase. 

As per Oil companies like HPCL, BPCL, and IOCL, they implemented the hike after months of frozen rates, citing global crude price escalation, the weakening rupee, and the impact of the West Asia conflict.

Meanwhile, despite assurances from Food and Civil Supplies Minister Sushanta Chowdhury that Tripura has adequate stock for 15 days, several pumps in Agartala displayed “fuel unavailable” notices, sparking public anger. Residents accused outlets of creating artificial scarcity to exploit the situation.

The hike has already spilled onto the streets. On Friday, the SUCI party staged a protest at Battala, denouncing the government for burdening citizens amid rising costs of essentials. Opposition leaders echoed the criticism, while ministers defended the move as an unavoidable necessity in the face of the global energy crisis.

With transport operators warning of fare hikes and traders anticipating higher commodity prices, the ripple effect of the fuel hike is expected to hit households and businesses across Tripura in the coming weeks.

This sudden escalation has turned fuel pricing into a flashpoint issue, intensifying debates over governance, accountability, and the state’s preparedness to shield citizens from global economic shocks.