New Delhi:Petrol and diesel prices were increased again on Saturday, marking the third hike in less than 10 days as global crude oil prices continue to surge amid the ongoing West Asia conflict and disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz. Petrol prices were raised by up to 87 paise per litre, while diesel prices increased by as much as 91 paise per litre across major cities. In Delhi, petrol now costs Rs 99.51 per litre, up from Rs 98.64, while diesel prices rose from Rs 91.58 to Rs 92.49 per litre. Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) prices were also increased by Re 1 per kg, marking the third hike in less than 10 days. With the latest revision coming into effect immediately, CNG in Delhi will now cost Rs 81.09 per kg. Prices in Noida, Greater Noida and Ghaziabad have risen to Rs 89.70 per kg, while Gurugram will see CNG priced at Rs 86.12 per kg. The latest hike follows a Rs 2 per kg increase announced on May 15 and another Re 1 per kg hike on May 17. With the latest revision, CNG prices in Delhi climbed to Rs 80.09 per kg, breaching the Rs 80-mark for the first time. The latest hikes come as India faces mounting pressure from soaring global crude oil prices triggered by the West Asia conflict and disruptions to shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil transit chokepoints.

Expressing concerns over the issue, citizens, as well as the taxi drivers, raised concerns over the hike. The taxi drivers said that the increase in prices does not mean an increase in fares for them.

Delhi residents raised concerns over the increase in fuel prices, with no effective increase in income. Some held the government responsible for the hike and for dismissing the public concerns.

A local said, “It’s affecting the middle class. Petrol prices are increasing. It’s a loss. But what can we do? People who have work will have to use a car. People are carpooling as asked. But petrol is expensive. There is no alternative. Electric cars are so expensive.