Karnataka Stands By E20 Findings, Seeks Independent Fuel Testing Nationwide
The OMCs' own statement says ethanol blending is 'a controlled and automated process: Reports
BENGALURU: Standing by the findings on ethanol content in petrol in the state, Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Minister Rizwan Arshad on Monday called for independent testing of petrol samples across the country to ascertain ethanol content. He also accused the Union Government of failing to address Karnataka's findings on fuel quality with scientific evidence.
Speaking to reporters on Monday, Arshad said that the state government stood firm on its findings.
“We had raised questions about the Ethanol content. The Union Government has not answered directly. But it has done so through Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs). They have replied to it technically but our question on the actual ethanol content in petrol sold to consumers remained unanswered,” he said
He asserted that Karnataka's sampling was carried out in accordance with the Motor Spirit and High Speed Diesel Order, 2005. After the laboratories of oil marketing companies failed to report the ethanol percentages in the first 63 samples, the state approached independent NABL-accredited and ISO-certified laboratories for verification, he said.
“The OMCs' own statement says ethanol blending is 'a controlled and automated process' carried out at their refineries and depots. If so, the blend in every litre of petrol is decided at the OMCs' six terminals serving Karnataka, not at the pump. A dealer only sells what the tanker delivers and has no role in the blend. The excess ethanol found is a failure at the source, and the responsibility lies with the OMCs,” he said
“We urge all State Governments to conduct independent ethanol testing and demand that the Union Government initiate nationwide testing through accredited third-party agencies,” he demanded.
The minister asserted that Karnataka would stand by its findings and continue to press for transparency, accountability and protection of consumer rights.
