India's truckers demand diesel price cuts to survive rising costs

The road transport sector in India is under severe financial strain. Rising costs for tyres, lubricants, AdBlue, spare parts, and other expenses have squeezed operators’ margins. Now, industry leaders are pushing for urgent cuts to diesel prices to ease the burden. Diesel makes up over half of a commercial vehicle’s operating costs. Transport associations argue that lower fuel prices would cut logistics expenses, strengthen supply chains, and help businesses and consumers. Road transport moves more than 70% of India’s domestic freight, supporting manufacturing, agriculture, exports, and essential goods.

Bal Malkit Singh, Adviser and former President of the All India Motor Transport Congress (AIMTC), has written to the Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas. He demanded an immediate revision of diesel prices in line with falling global crude rates, which have dropped below USD 75 per barrel. The AIMTC also seeks diesel under the GST regime, a uniform price nationwide, and guaranteed fuel availability.

Freight rates have not kept pace with rising costs. Many operators now struggle to repay loans and cover daily expenses as their margins shrink further. The sector’s call for action comes as financial pressures mount. A reduction in diesel prices could provide much-needed relief to transporters. It would also support wider economic stability by lowering logistics costs for industries and consumers.