Congress questions Centre on ethanol-blended petrol policy

Chandigarh, Jul 10 (PTI) Congress leader Randeep Singh Surjewala questioned the Centre's ethanol-blended petrol policy on Friday, alleging that the government has failed to address concerns over vehicle compatibility, fuel efficiency, pricing and food security. Citing the NITI Aayog's 2021 roadmap on ethanol blending, Surjewala claimed that existing petrol vehicles require material and engine compatibility for E20 fuel. He asked whether the government has implemented these recommendations before rolling out 20 per cent ethanol-blended petrol. Referring to reports of the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI), he claimed that E20 fuel can accelerate wear and tear of rubber fuel system components, such as hoses, seals and gaskets. Surjewala questioned why the Bharatiya Janata Party-led Centre has introduced E20 petrol without ensuring that the existing vehicles are compatible. The Congress leader also claimed that E20 fuel reduces vehicle mileage. While the government has acknowledged around a 5-per cent drop in fuel efficiency, Surjewala claimed that users have reported a much-higher decline, particularly in city driving, and sought clarity from the Centre on the issue. He further said that E20 fuel requires flex-fuel engine technology and asked what would happen to millions of existing vehicle owners whose vehicles do not have such technology. Questioning the pricing of ethanol-blended petrol, Surjewala pointed out that Union minister Nitin Gadkari has said ethanol costs around Rs 75 per litre, while petrol is priced at more than Rs 100 per litre in many states. He asked why consumers are not benefitting from lower prices despite ethanol being cheaper than petrol. The Congress leader also raised concerns over the Centre's proposal to introduce a 15-per cent methanol blend in diesel, asking whether it would be made mandatory for diesel vehicles and whether compatibility issues have been examined. He further alleged that subsidised rice and sugarcane are being diverted for ethanol production and questioned whether this can affect India's food security. Surjewala said the government should provide clear answers on the impact of ethanol blending on vehicles, fuel prices and food security, instead of relying on publicity campaigns. PTI VSD RC