Karnataka widens ethanol probe to distribution network, CM Shivakumar attacks Centre

Karnataka's investigation into ethanol blending in petrol has expanded to cover the entire distribution network. Chief Minister D K Shivakumar announced on Sunday that officials would be examining samples, records, and documents from various points along the fuel supply chain as part of the ongoing probe by the Food, Civil Supplies, and Legal Metrology Department.

Speaking to reporters, Shivakumar acknowledged complaints from motorists who reported that higher ethanol content in petrol was negatively impacting vehicle performance and fuel efficiency. Inspections were not limited to petrol pumps; they extended to all points where ethanol is blended and distributed. Detailed records of the blending process were collected, according to Shivakumar.

The Food and Civil Supplies Minister, Rizwan Arshad, was set to release a comprehensive report on Monday detailing the findings of the probe. Shivakumar explained that 67 locations across Karnataka were selected for petrol sampling following complaints alleging that ethanol blending levels had surpassed regulatory limits. In response to these complaints, petrol samples were gathered and subjected to testing at 67 locations throughout the state. The minister in charge indicated that a report and subsequent actions would be provided.

The government has taken serious notice of the 31.5% ethanol level being blended into petrol, according to Shivakumar. He strongly criticized the Central government, stating that fuel quality, vehicle performance, and public safety should not be compromised. He emphasized that it is not acceptable to increase the blending ratio solely for economic gains from ethanol's lower cost. Shivakumar accused state BJP and Janata Dal (Secular) leaders of remaining silent on the issue.

Karnataka's findings were presented in Arshad's report, which revealed that laboratory tests conducted on petrol samples collected across the state showed ethanol content significantly higher than the prescribed E20 limit. Samples from multiple districts, tested at NABL-accredited laboratories, exhibited ethanol content ranging from 31.2% in an Indian Oil sample to 30.5% in a Hindustan Petroleum sample.

Most samples allegedly exceeded the 20% threshold. Arshad noted that the state had initially requested ethanol-content data from oil companies but resorted to independent laboratories when the information was allegedly withheld. He urged the Union Government to take action against companies violating blending norms, enforce mandatory ethanol-content disclosure at fuel stations, and establish a compensation mechanism for consumers affected by vehicle damage resulting from over-blending.