New Delhi: Diesel sales in the country fell by 12 per cent in August, while petrol sales increased. Diesel sales have been declining due to traffic congestion, rising prices and slow economic activity due to lockdowns in various places. But petrol sales rose 5.5 percent. Diesel sales have declined for the second consecutive month. But compared to August last year, petrol sales are down 7.5 percent and diesel sales are 22 percent lower this year. Of the total oil sold in the country, 40 percent is diesel. It is considered a measure of economic growth. In August, aviation fuel sales increased by 7%, while LPG salesincreased by 0.5%.