Fourth Fuel Price Hike in Ten Days Hits Indian Motorists

Petrol and diesel prices climbed for the fourth time in ten days on Monday, adding fresh pressure on household budgets across India. Oil marketing companies raised petrol by ₹2.61 per litre and diesel by ₹2.71 per litre, pushing Delhi rates to ₹102.12 and ₹95.20 respectively. The rapid succession of increases began after renewed conflict in the Middle East pushed global crude above key thresholds. Transport unions have already flagged plans to revise fares, warning that last-mile delivery charges and inter-city trucking rates could rise within days. Economists tracking retail inflation note that fuel accounts for a sizable share of the consumer price index, meaning the latest adjustments may soon appear in food and service costs. Political reactions have been mixed, with ruling party spokespersons highlighting that India’s tax structure keeps pump prices lower than many peers. Opposition voices, however, argue that repeated hikes undermine recent relief measures. For now, drivers are left calculating longer-term commuting expenses while businesses reassess supply-chain budgets ahead of the festive season.