India's diesel, petrol sales rise in July
New Delhi, Aug 2
India's leading oil marketing companies-- Indian Oil, Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd, and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd recorded a robust increase in diesel and petrol sales during July this year compared to the same month of the previous year, reflecting the high level of economic activity during the month.
The sales of diesel, which is the highest-consumed fuel in the country as it is used in the farm and transport sectors, recorded a double-digit growth of 10.7 per cent during the month to 7.12 million tonnes, up from 6.43 million tonnes in July last year.
The fuel, which is used for trucks and buses as well as farm machinery and irrigation, saw higher demand as delayed monsoon rains pushed farmers to rely on diesel pumps during the peak sowing season. The commissioning of new highways and Expressways over the last year has also led to an increase in commercial traffic. July's diesel volumes were also 11.5 per cent above the same month in 2024 and 12.7 per cent higher than 2023.
Petrol sales of the three oil biggies increased by 9.7 per cent to 3.45 million tonnes in July this year, compared with 3.14 million tonnes in the corresponding month last year.
Jet fuel sales also went up 2.9 per cent to 659,900 tonnes in July compared to the same month last year. On a sequential basis, jet fuel sales fell by 4.6 per cent compared with 691,700 tonnes in June as some flights had to be cancelled due to inclement weather in the monsoon season.
Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) sales declined by 17.4 per cent to 2.37 million tonnes as the government encouraged consumers to switch to piped natural gas as part of the diversification to tackle the LPG import disruption in the wake of the choking of the Strait of Hormuz amid the West Asia crisis. Commercial LPG sales to hotels and restaurants also had to be curtailed due to the supply disruptions.
— IANS
Reader Comments
The delayed monsoon really pushed farmers to use diesel pumps for irrigation. Even though this shows resilience in the agricultural sector, it also highlights how dependent we still are on fossil fuels and how vulnerable we are to weather changes. More investment in solar-powered pumps would be a game-changer for our farmers!
Interesting data, but the fall in LPG sales is concerning. The push for piped natural gas is good in principle, but the infrastructure isn't everywhere yet. Rural areas still depend on LPG cylinders for cooking. Hope the government ensures supply continuity, especially with all the global tensions.
Interesting to see jet fuel sales drop sequentially due to monsoon disruptions. But the bigger picture is clear—India is moving! The new expressways are making a real difference in freight movement. Let's hope the pace of infrastructure development continues.
While increased fuel sales reflect economic growth, the LPG decline is a bit worrying. The Strait of Hormuz situation is a reminder of how fragile our energy security is. Maybe it's time we accelerated our renewable and nuclear energy programs. What do you all think?
The diesel demand from agriculture is a double-edged sword. Farmers are doing their best despite climate challenges, but fuel price hikes hurt them the most. The government should consider special subsidies for farmers during sowing seasons, not just during elections!
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.