Karnataka petrol samples show ethanol blending up to 31.2 per cent
Consumer Affairs Minister Rizwan Arshad says excessive ethanol levels could affect 99 per cent of vehicles in the state.
Petrol samples collected from various fuel companies in Karnataka contained ethanol levels as high as 31.2 per cent, exceeding the mandated 20 per cent limit, according to Deccan Herald. Consumer Affairs and Legal Metrology Minister Rizwan Arshad stated on Friday that 11 out of 14 samples tested showed blending above the E20 standard.
The government collected the samples from petrol pumps across seven districts, including Bengaluru Urban, Bengaluru Rural, Kolar, Chikkaballapur, Ramanagara, Tumakuru and Mangaluru. Testing was conducted at the Shriram Research Institute in Bengaluru using gas chromatography after in-house laboratory reports from oil companies failed to disclose ethanol content.
Arshad noted that an Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) sample recorded 31.2 per cent ethanol, while a Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) sample reached 30.5 per cent. A Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) sample was found to have 26.5 per cent ethanol.
State-run oil marketing companies have challenged the findings. In a joint statement, Indian Oil Corporation, Bharat Petroleum Corporation and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation said the results were not supported by tests following prescribed statutory and technical procedures and questioned the use of third-party laboratory certificates.
The minister estimated that the cumulative burden on consumers could reach Rs 1 lakh crore due to reduced mileage and repair costs. He urged the Centre to allow consumers to choose between different ethanol blends and to establish a compensation fund for vehicle damage.
Arshad also requested that the Centre penalise companies found guilty of over-blending and direct automobile manufacturers to extend warranties for engine damage caused by E20 fuel.