Karnataka stands by report of excess ethanol in petrol samples
Minister Rizwan Arshad accused oil marketing companies of failing to disclose ethanol levels exceeding the prescribed 20 per cent limit.
The Karnataka government is maintaining its findings that petrol samples collected across the state contain more than the prescribed 20 per cent ethanol, according to reports by Hindustan Times, Deccan Chronicle and Moneycontrol. Minister for Food, Civil Supplies, Consumer Affairs and Legal Metrology Rizwan Arshad said on Monday that some samples showed ethanol levels as high as 31.2 per cent.
Arshad stated that the excess blending could damage vehicle engines and create a financial burden for citizens. He challenged oil marketing companies (OMCs) to explain the specific ethanol content in 63 samples collected from petrol pumps across seven districts since September 21.
The state government reported that an Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) sample contained 31.2 per cent ethanol, while samples from Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) and Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) recorded 30.5 per cent and 26.5 per cent respectively. The samples were tested at laboratories that hold ISO certification and are accredited by the National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL).
The OMCs have disputed the findings, questioning the state's testing methods and sampling procedures. They cited a separate study of 893 samples across 27 states and Union territories, including 56 from Karnataka, which showed ethanol levels between 19 per cent and 21 per cent.
Arshad rejected claims that the issue was limited to specific retail outlets, noting that ethanol blending is an automated process performed at terminals. He demanded that consumers be allowed to choose between E10, E20, E30 and pure petrol based on their vehicle requirements.
The minister will hold a meeting with OMC representatives to discuss the findings and consumer protection measures.