Commercial LPG, ATF prices hiked from 1 October

Oil marketing companies raised the price of 19-kg commercial LPG cylinders from 1 October, with Delhi seeing an increase of Rs 62.50 to Rs 2,810, as reported by Times Now, Odisha TV, Times of India, Livemint, and Indiatvnews.com. Mumbai's cylinder rose by Rs 63 to Rs 2,764, Chennai by Rs 66.50 to Rs 2,983, and Patna recorded the steepest hike of Rs 71.50 to Rs 3,100.50, according to Deccan Herald and New Indian Express. The hike comes ahead of the festive season, potentially raising operating costs for hotels, restaurants, and small eateries. Businesstoday.in notes that small businesses with tighter margins may feel the impact directly, and higher fuel costs could be passed to customers through increased food and beverage prices.

Prices of 14.2-kg domestic LPG cylinders remain unchanged: Rs 942 in Delhi, Rs 941.50 in Mumbai, and Rs 957.50 in Chennai. Indiatvnews.com reports that international LPG market rates and foreign exchange fluctuations drive pricing, though the government may keep domestic rates stable. The Times of India adds that from 1 October, domestic LPG consumers must complete Biometric Aadhaar Authentication to book refills at the regulated price with subsidy, those who do not can still get LPG at market price in 5-kg or 10-kg cylinders.

ATF prices also rose by about Rs 16 per litre to Rs 137 per litre from 1 October, according to Times Now, Deccan Herald, and New Indian Express. Livemint reports that ATF accounts for up to 40 per cent of airlines' operating costs, and higher fuel prices may eventually lead to higher airfares. Times Now adds that analysts believe airlines may partially pass on higher fuel costs through higher airfares or fuel surcharges, depending on competition and demand.