Kejriwal questions timing of steep hike in CNG prices

As CNG price in the national capital was hiked by a steep Rs 4.50 per kg, Delhi Chief Minister-designate Arvind Kejriwal has questioned the timing of the hike.

Kejriwal, who will take oath on Saturday at the Ramlila Maidan as Delhi's seventh chief minister, said: "Just 2 days before Government formation, CNG prices were hiked, what was the hurry, could have waited, asked the elected Government also."

"Will hold talks to see if CNG price hike is justified, concerns of auto-drivers will be addressed. If rollback is not possible then fares have to be revised," he added.

The price of CNG has been raised by 4 rupees 50 paise per kg in Delhi. This is the second hike in CNG rates in three months. The new rate came into effect from midnight last night.

Indraprastha Gas Ltd said, CNG will now cost 50 rupees 10 paise per kg in Delhi and 56 rupees and 70 paise per kg in Noida, Greater Noida and Ghaziabad.

The price of cooking gas piped to kitchens has also been increased by 2 rupees a kg. The piped natural gas, PNG in Delhi will now cost 29 rupees and 50 paise per standard cubic metre up to consumption of 30 scm in two months.