Petrol and diesel have become more expensive in Himachal Pradesh after the state government introduced an additional cess of 60 paise per litre on both fuels. The revision affects motorists across the state and could marginally increase daily transportation costs, particularly for people who travel long distances regularly.

The increase applies to petrol as well as high-speed diesel (HSD). While Himachal Pradesh consumers are facing the additional levy, fuel prices continue to vary considerably across major Indian cities because of differences in state taxes, dealer commissions and other local components.

Here is a detailed look at the latest petrol and diesel price update, the reason behind the Himachal Pradesh increase and the fuel rates reported across major cities.

Why Petrol and Diesel Prices Increased in Himachal Pradesh

The latest increase comes after the Himachal Pradesh government imposed an additional 60 paise per litre cess on petrol and high-speed diesel.

According to the information available, the state's Excise and Taxation Department issued a notification regarding the additional levy on August 11. The cess has reportedly been introduced under Section 6-A of the Himachal Pradesh Value Added Tax Act, 2005, following approval from the state Cabinet.

The additional levy has been described as an orphan and widow cess. With the new charge coming into effect, consumers purchasing petrol and diesel in Himachal Pradesh will have to pay slightly more for every litre.

Latest Petrol and Diesel Prices in Shimla

Following the revision, petrol in Shimla is reported at ₹103.25 per litre, while diesel costs ₹95.21 per litre.

The price of premium XP95 petrol is reported at ₹111.90 per litre.

Actual retail prices can differ slightly between fuel stations and locations because of transportation costs and other local factors. Consumers should therefore check the price displayed at their nearest petrol pump before refuelling.

Petrol Prices in Major Cities

According to the rates provided for August 12, 2026, petrol prices in major cities were as follows:

Among these cities, Hyderabad has one of the highest petrol prices at ₹115.69 per litre, while Delhi remains comparatively cheaper at ₹102.12 per litre.

Diesel Prices in Major Cities

Diesel prices also differ from one city to another because state-level taxes and other components influence the final retail price.

Hyderabad is above the ₹100-per-litre mark at ₹103.82, while diesel in Delhi is listed at ₹95.20 per litre.

Why Fuel Prices Differ Across India

Petrol and diesel prices are not uniform throughout the country. The amount consumers ultimately pay depends on several components, including the base fuel price, central duties, state-level taxes, dealer commission and transportation expenses.

As a result, two consumers purchasing the same quantity of petrol or diesel in different states can pay noticeably different amounts.

State governments can also revise taxes or impose additional levies, as seen in the latest Himachal Pradesh decision. Such changes can affect retail fuel prices even when broader nationwide rates remain relatively stable.

How Will the 60-Paise Increase Affect Consumers?

An increase of 60 paise per litre may appear small for an individual purchase, but the additional cost becomes more noticeable for people consuming large quantities of fuel.

For example, buying 50 litres after the increase would mean an additional expense of about ₹30 compared with the previous price, assuming the entire 60-paise increase is reflected in the retail rate.

The impact could therefore be higher for taxi operators, commercial vehicle owners, delivery businesses and motorists who travel long distances every day.

Businesses that rely heavily on road transportation may also see a small increase in operating costs.

Crude Oil Prices Remain Important

Domestic fuel prices are also influenced by developments in the international energy market. India imports a large share of its crude oil requirements, which means sustained changes in global crude prices and currency movements can influence costs for oil marketing companies.

However, a rise in international crude prices does not necessarily result in an immediate or identical increase in petrol and diesel prices across India.

Taxes, government policies and pricing decisions by oil marketing companies also play an important role in determining what consumers eventually pay at fuel stations.

Check Local Fuel Prices Before Filling Your Tank

Motorists should remember that petrol and diesel rates can differ not only between states but sometimes between cities within the same state.

For consumers in Himachal Pradesh, the latest 60-paise-per-litre additional cess means higher fuel costs. In other major cities, prices should be checked locally before refuelling, particularly because rates may be revised and city-specific taxes can result in different retail prices.

Note: Fuel prices mentioned above are based on the rates provided in the source information. Actual pump prices may vary by location and subsequent revisions.