New Delhi, 20 March (H.S.): Public sector oil marketing companies raised premium petrol prices by Rs 2 to Rs 2.30 per litre on Friday amid the West Asia crisis, while keeping regular petrol rates unchanged across the country effective 6am today.

Media reports indicate companies like Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) with its 'Power' petrol and Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) with 'XP95' implemented the hike. Premium fuel remains popular among drivers of luxury cars and high-end bikes seeking smoother engine performance.

The decision stems from escalating geopolitical strife in the Middle East impacting global fuel markets. Brent crude traded at $109.54 per barrel today after peaking at $117.98 yesterday, while India's imported crude basket price has doubled to nearly $146 per barrel from suppliers like Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Russia, and UAE.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar