A significant controversy has emerged surrounding India's E20 petrol program after Karnataka claimed laboratory tests revealed excessive ethanol blending in fuel samples. The state reported findings of ethanol concentrations as high as 31.2% in some samples, well above the mandated 20% limit for E20 fuel.
Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar stated that petrol samples from 67 locations across the state were tested following thousands of complaints from motorists. These complaints cited issues such as reduced mileage, engines stalling, and vehicles failing to cover expected distances. The state's investigation included inspections of petrol pumps and ethanol blending facilities, with a detailed report expected from Food and Civil Supplies Minister Rizwan Arshad.
Kerala Begins Fuel Quality Checks
In response to Karnataka's allegations and growing public concern, neighboring Kerala has launched its own inspections. The Kerala Food and Civil Supplies Department ordered random checks at petrol pumps in Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam, Kozhikode, and Kannur.
State Food and Civil Supplies Minister Anoop Jacob confirmed that samples would be collected and sent to government laboratories for analysis, with results anticipated within ten days. He warned that any outlets found violating prescribed standards could face sealing and legal action, though he clarified that Kerala has not yet confirmed any instances of excessive ethanol blending.
Oil Companies and Centre Dispute Findings
The allegations from Karnataka have been strongly rejected by major oil companies, including Indian Oil Corporation, Bharat Petroleum Corporation, and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation. They maintain that their E20 petrol complies with the Bureau of Indian Standards' IS 17021 specifications and have questioned Karnataka's sampling procedures and testing methodology.
The Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Ministry also countered Karnataka's claims, stating on November 7 that all 893 samples tested across 27 states and Union Territories, including 56 samples from Karnataka, showed ethanol content within the prescribed range of 19% to 21%. The oil companies have called for joint sampling and independent verification to resolve the dispute.