Diesel climbs to highest in Oman history

Muscat: Diesel prices crossed the 200 baisas a litre mark for the first time in Oman’s history as the Ministry of Oil and Gas announced new fuel prices on Tuesday.
With effect from February 1, fuel prices will go up 10 baisas per litre with M91 costing 186 baisas per litre, compared to 176 baisas last month. Similarly, M95 price will be 196 baisas, up from 186 baisas in January.
Diesel will now cost 205 baisas per litre, compared to 195 baisas in January.
Mixed reactions
Residents and nationals offered mixed reactions to the new prices with some terming these as too expensive while others deciding to just accept and move on.
“I guess we have to top up (the fuel tank) now before it comes into effect. It’ll be too expensive now,” said Khalid, an Omani national.
Some are also planning to cut down on their weekend trips.
“It (the fuel price) is going up and up and I think petrol will cross 200 baisas next month, just like diesel,” said Deepak, an Indian expat living in Oman.
“During weekends, I drive a lot but I think I will limit my travel plans. Before the subsidy was removed, I had to shell out around OMR6 to fill my tank. Now, it costs around OMR10,” he added.
However, Sanjay Ratna, a resident of the Sultanate, said people just have to accept the hike. “It is what it is,” he remarked.
“Why complain? If there need to be cuts, people complain, so why not raise the prices? It is up to the individual if he or she finds the additional expense justifiable. If it’s better for the people and the country, then all this pain means everyone’s gain,” said Ratna.
Regular commuters on Mwasalat’s buses will not be affected as the national transport company will not raise its fees to compensate for the increased fuel cost this month.
“There aren’t any plans to increase the bus fares following the hike in fuel prices,” Mwasalat said in a tweet.