Petrol row spreads: Kerala collects samples from 4 districts after Karnataka's 31% ethanol claim

Thiruvananthapuram (The Uttam Hindu): Following reports of high levels of ethanol in petrol in Karnataka, Kerala has started testing petrol samples from petrol pumps in four districts. Inspections were conducted at petrol pumps in Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam, Kozhikode and Kannur on Monday morning.

Six samples were collected during the inspection in the presence of representatives of oil companies

Food and Civil Supplies Minister Anoop Jacob said these tests are being conducted to address public concerns about the quality of petrol. He added that these inspections are not being conducted based on any pre-determined conclusions. However, if the petrol is found to have high ethanol content, the government will initiate prosecution proceedings.

The move comes after a test conducted by the Karnataka government reportedly found up to 31 percent ethanol in petrol samples. These findings sparked controversy, with the central government and oil companies rejecting the results and questioning the scientific methodology used in the testing.

Following the developments in Karnataka, Kerala Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan spoke with Jacob and decided to conduct a similar investigation in Kerala. Six samples collected from four districts will be sent for testing. Further action will be decided after the test results are received.

The minister said that if the investigation reveals that the amount of ethanol in petrol is more than the prescribed limit, the state government will approach the court and initiate legal action against the culprits.

This issue has raised concerns among motorists, who complain that adding ethanol impacts vehicle performance. Some consumers have reported reduced mileage and vehicle damage after using gasoline containing higher levels of ethanol.

Jacob said the government wants to ascertain the facts and address consumer concerns. He stressed that the inspections were not aimed at targeting any particular oil company.

The Karnataka findings have gained national significance as the central government and petroleum companies have disputed the state's claims. They have questioned the testing methodology and stated that the results are not scientifically proven. Therefore, Kerala's test results will be closely monitored.

These results could also add weight to the ongoing national debate on blending ethanol in petrol and the need to ensure the quality of fuel sold to consumers.