New Delhi, Aug 12 (TIWN): Petrol and diesel prices in the country remained static for the 26th consecutive day on Thursday.

Across the country as well, fuel prices remained unchanged providing some relief to consumers already feeling the heat of higher inflation that has raised prices of several other commodities including food items.

Global crude prices have now softened to just over $71 a barrel after it swung in all directions in July starting with a low of $70 a barrel to quickly rise to over $77 a barrel, only to fall soon below $70 a barrel and crossing $75 a barrel later in the month.

Lower oil and product prices should have actually resulted in consumers getting relief by way of a cut in retail price of petrol and diesel. Rather, OMCs have decided to wait and watch the disruption as crude prices are still swinging.