CNG up Rs 1.25 a kg, domestic PNG up Rs 1.50 per SCM in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad

CNG and PNG prices have gone up in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad. Maharashtra Natural Gas Limited (MNGL) has raised the price of both fuels, and the new rates came into force from midnight on November 12.

CNG in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad is dearer by Rs 1.25 a kg. A kilogram that cost Rs 97.75 now costs Rs 99. The same rates apply in nearby areas such as Chakan, Talegaon and Hinjewadi.

Domestic PNG has also become dearer. In the municipal corporation areas of Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad, its price has been raised by Rs 1.50 per standard cubic metre (SCM), to Rs 53 per SCM from Rs 51.50.

Prices of CNG and PNG have also been raised from midnight in Nashik and Dhule districts. In Nashik, CNG will sell at Rs 99.75 a kg and PNG at Rs 51.75 per cubic metre.

The hike is likely to hit most those who travel long distances by vehicle every day. Journeys by CNG cars, autorickshaws and cabs will cost more. Auto and cab drivers in particular will have to pay more each time they refuel.

Households that use piped PNG will also have to pay higher bills, and will need to set aside some extra money for gas in the monthly budget.

MNGL has cited a higher cost of procuring gas as the reason. According to the company, the cost of re-gasified liquefied natural gas (RLNG), which is imported, has also gone up. India does not produce all the natural gas it needs, so some has to be imported to meet demand. When gas prices and import costs rise in the international market, companies' overall costs are affected, and that is now showing up directly in the rates.