Shimla, May 16 -- The Public Works Department Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Vikramaditya Singh, on Saturday, alleged that the recent rise in petrol and diesel prices has triggered inflationary pressure across sectors, adversely affecting common people, traders, transporters and contractors in the state.

Speaking to the media in Shimla, Singh claimed that fuel prices were not increased earlier due to elections in states including West Bengal, Assam, Tamil Nadu and Kerala, but are now 'skyrocketing,' causing hardship for ordinary citizens.

The minister said, "The increase in fuel prices would directly impact transportation costs and essential commodities, including vegetables, milk and edible oils. He added that the tourism and hospitalit...