Karnataka transporters demand probe into ethanol-blended petrol test results
The Karnataka State Travel Operators Association has requested the publication of original testing data and methods used for E20 petrol samples.
The Karnataka State Travel Operators Association (KSTOA) has requested the central and state governments to investigate reported inconsistencies in ethanol-blended petrol testing within the state, according to The Telegraph India.
The association is asking for the release of original test results for E20 samples collected from 63 locations, including retest figures, collection dates, and the specific methods used for testing.
Initial tests were conducted in oil company laboratories to check if ethanol blending surpassed the 20 per cent limit. However, subsequent retests by the state government at National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL) accredited labs showed ethanol levels as high as 31.2 per cent in certain samples.
KSTOA president K. Radhakrishna Holla stated that the matter should be resolved using scientific evidence rather than politics. He suggested that fuel stations display the exact ethanol percentage and inform customers which vehicle categories are compatible with the fuel.
The association also called for the government to release independent scientific studies regarding engine performance, maintenance, durability, and environmental impacts of ethanol blending.
On Monday, Karnataka Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Minister Rizwan Arshad said consumers should have the option to choose between E10, E20, E30, and pure petrol based on their vehicle requirements.