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Nitin Gadkari Clarifies MP Kamal Haasan’s Concerns Over E20 Petrol Issues
Actor-turned-politician and Rajya Sabha MP Kamal Haasan recently raised a question in Parliament regarding E20 petrol and its impact on vehicles. Now, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has responded in writing, stating that ethanol-blended petrol causes no potential damage, as per tests conducted by petroleum corporations and government agencies.
Kamal Hassan Questions E20 Petrol
MNM chief and Rajya Sabha MP Kamal Haasan questioned the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways on ethanol-blended fuels. The 71-year-old actor-turned-politician asked whether any studies had been conducted on the effect of E20 petrol on fuel efficiency, engine components, and other vehicle parts.
He also questioned the unnecessary withdrawal of E10 petrol, despite many people preferring it over E20, and asked whether the government would restore it as an option for consumers. He also demanded consumer protection through warranty and insurance support in case any vehicle damage or affordability issues arise due to the use of blended fuels.
Nitin Gadkari Clarifies E20 Row
The Union Minister has now responded to Kamal Haasan's queries in writing. Nitin Gadkari stated that extensive testing and trials have been conducted by bodies such as the Indian Oil Corporation, the Automotive Research Association of India, and the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers.
All of them stated that there is no potential damage or negative effect on vehicles using E20 fuel, including older vehicles. There have also been no reported complaints regarding the performance, drivability, or compatibility of E20 fuel. He also acknowledged that there may be some mileage variations with ethanol-blended petrol, but this depends on multiple factors such as driving style, maintenance, and engine condition.
However, Kamal Haasan wasn't convinced by the Union Minister's response. He highlighted consumers' growing frustration over the accelerated ethanol blending programme and rising fuel prices despite the mixing of ethanol with pure petrol. He also demanded fair and transparent implementation of ethanol blending, as vehicles are aspirational for many consumers.
Many consumers across the country complained about E20 petrol, citing issues such as reduced fuel efficiency, engine damage, higher operating costs, and damage to components. Only a few petroleum companies supply 100% petrol, and that too at higher prices and in limited quantities.
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