Bhubaneswar: Fuel prices were raised once again across India on Monday, with petrol becoming costlier by Rs 2.61 per litre and diesel by Rs 2.71 per litre, marking the fourth increase in rates over the past two weeks.

The latest hike comes amid continued volatility in global crude oil prices, largely driven by tensions in West Asia. Concerns over the ongoing conflict involving the United States and Iran, along with the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, have added pressure on international oil markets.

Petrol and diesel prices were last revised on May 23, when petrol rates were increased by Rs 0.87 per litre and diesel by Rs 0.91 per litre.

The fresh increase is expected to put additional financial pressure on commuters, transport operators and businesses. Analysts have warned that continued hikes in fuel prices could raise transportation and logistics costs, eventually pushing up prices of essential commodities and food items.