Petrol and diesel prices were increased once again across the country on Monday as state-owned oil marketing companies revised fuel rates amid continued volatility in global crude oil markets. The latest hike has intensified concerns over rising transportation costs and inflationary pressure on essential commodities.

According to the revised rates, petrol prices were raised by around ₹2.60 per litre while diesel prices saw an increase of nearly ₹2.70 per litre in major cities. Following the revision, petrol prices crossed the ₹100-per-litre mark in several urban centres, including Delhi, while diesel prices in cities like Mumbai moved close to the same level.

This marks the fourth fuel price increase within a span of two weeks. Oil companies had earlier revised rates upward on multiple occasions this month, citing rising international crude oil prices and mounting losses in fuel retail operations. Industry analysts say geopolitical tensions in West Asia and disruptions in global supply routes have pushed crude prices higher, directly affecting domestic fuel pricing.

Officials associated with the petroleum sector stated that Indian fuel retailers have been under pressure due to the widening gap between international crude prices and domestic retail rates. The recent revisions are reportedly aimed at balancing operational costs and reducing financial strain on public sector oil companies.

The fresh hike is expected to impact several sectors, particularly transportation, agriculture, logistics and manufacturing. Experts believe increased fuel costs could eventually lead to higher prices of vegetables, food grains and other daily-use commodities due to rising freight expenses. Public transport operators and commercial vehicle owners have also expressed concern over the repeated increases.

Economic observers warn that if global crude prices continue to remain elevated, India may witness further upward revisions in fuel prices in the coming weeks. A weakening rupee against the US dollar has added to the pressure, making crude oil imports more expensive for the country.

Reports also indicate that some industrial consumers have shifted to purchasing diesel from retail fuel stations because of the difference between bulk and retail fuel pricing. This trend has reportedly created additional pressure on fuel supply chains in certain regions.

Meanwhile, opposition parties have criticised the government over the repeated hikes, accusing it of failing to provide relief to common citizens already dealing with rising living costs. However, government sources maintain that India’s fuel price increases are still comparatively lower than those witnessed in several countries facing the ongoing global energy crisis.

With fuel expenses continuing to rise, consumers across the country are now worried about the broader impact on household budgets and the overall cost of living.

Powered by Froala Editor