Petrol and diesel prices are an important part of the daily budget for millions of households and businesses. From people commuting to work to commercial transport operators moving goods across cities, even a small change in fuel rates can influence everyday expenses.

Oil marketing companies have released the latest petrol and diesel prices for September 16, 2026. Fuel rates vary considerably across cities, with local taxes and other pricing components contributing to the difference in what motorists pay at the pump.

According to the rates provided in the source, petrol in New Delhi is priced at ₹102.12 per litre, while diesel costs ₹95.20 per litre. Mumbai motorists are paying ₹111.18 per litre for petrol and ₹97.83 for diesel.

Consumers planning to refuel their vehicles can check the latest city-wise rates below.

Petrol and Diesel Prices on September 16, 2026

Here are the petrol and diesel rates reported for major Indian cities:

The figures show a substantial difference between cities. For instance, Chandigarh has petrol at ₹98.10 per litre and diesel at ₹86.09, while Hyderabad's quoted rates stand at ₹115.69 and ₹103.82 respectively.

Why Are Petrol and Diesel Prices Different Across Cities?

Fuel prices are influenced by several components rather than a single benchmark.

International crude oil prices are one important factor because petrol and diesel are produced from crude oil. Movements in global crude markets can therefore influence the broader cost environment for fuel.

Currency movements are another consideration. India imports a large share of its crude oil requirements, and international purchases are generally denominated in US dollars. A change in the rupee-dollar exchange rate can consequently affect the cost of imported crude.

Taxes and levies also play an important role in determining the final retail price. Differences in state-level taxation are among the reasons motorists can encounter different petrol and diesel prices when travelling from one state to another.

Refining Costs Also Affect Fuel Pricing

Crude oil cannot be used directly as petrol or diesel. It must first undergo refining, and this process involves additional costs.

The overall economics can depend on factors such as crude quality and refinery operations. Distribution and other components of the fuel supply chain can further influence the price ultimately paid by consumers.

Demand and supply conditions can also affect the broader market. Changes in transport activity, economic demand and seasonal consumption patterns can influence fuel requirements.

Why Motorists Should Check Rates Before Refuelling

Oil marketing companies update fuel rates regularly, generally from 6 AM. Because prices can vary by city, checking the applicable local rate can be useful before visiting a fuel station.

This is particularly relevant for commercial drivers and people travelling between cities, as differences of several rupees per litre can become significant when purchasing larger quantities of fuel.

The September 16 rates, for example, show petrol above ₹115 per litre in Hyderabad and Thiruvananthapuram, while the quoted price in Chandigarh remains below ₹100 per litre.

How to Check Petrol and Diesel Prices Through SMS

Motorists can also use SMS-based services to check fuel prices.

According to the source, Indian Oil customers can use the RSP service with the appropriate city code and send the message to 9224992249.

BPCL customers can use its RSP service through 9223112222, while HPCL customers can use the HP Price service through 9222201122.

Consumers should ensure they use the latest format prescribed by their respective oil marketing company, as service instructions may change.

Check Your City's Rate Before Visiting a Fuel Station

Petrol and diesel remain major recurring expenses for vehicle owners, making daily fuel-price information useful for household and travel budgeting.

As of the rates reported for September 16, 2026, New Delhi petrol stands at ₹102.12 per litre, Mumbai at ₹111.18, Kolkata at ₹113.47, Chennai at ₹107.77 and Jaipur at ₹112.66. Diesel rates in these cities are ₹95.20, ₹97.83, ₹99.82, ₹99.55 and ₹97.78 per litre, respectively.

Since rates can differ by location and may be updated, motorists should verify the latest price applicable at their local fuel station before refuelling.

Disclaimer: The fuel prices above are based on the city-wise rates provided in the source for September 16, 2026. Actual pump prices may vary by location, and consumers should check the latest applicable rate before purchase.