Bengaluru: Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Sunday doubled down on his government’s claim that petrol sold in the state contained more than 30 per cent ethanol, violating the prescribed 20 per cent blend under the E20 programme.
Shivakumar aka DKS said it was a major concern for the entire country, warning that it posed a serious risk to public safety.
Even as the Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) refuted Karnataka’s claims of additional ethanol being mixed in petrol, questioning the procedure laid out for testing samples, Shivakumar said the state government had received thousands of complaints about vehicle problems, ranging from reduced mileage to engines stalling midway.
“We have collected samples from 67 locations and conducted inspections after informing the Central Government. Thousands of motorists have complained that their vehicles are experiencing problems, including engine malfunctions and reduced mileage,” DKS said.
The state government has ordered a detailed investigation into the complaints and gathered information about petrol bunks and distribution points where the alleged mixing was taking place.
“Our ministers have received reports containing details of where ethanol is being mixed with petrol and where the mixing is taking place during distribution. We have also gathered information about the petrol bunks and the distribution points involved,” the chief minister said.
He alleged ethanol was being mixed with petrol to make profits by sourcing it at lower prices, and that the practice could endanger motorists.
“This is a matter of serious concern not just for Karnataka but for the entire country. There are allegations that ethanol is being mixed in this manner to make profits by sourcing it at lower prices. We strongly condemn such practices. They pose a serious risk to public safety,” he remarked.
Shivakumar stressed that was not raising the issue for political reasons. He criticised the BJP and JD(S) for not speaking up on the issue.
The Karnataka CM highlighted the need to make people aware of alleged irregularities and protect their safety, and said a press conference will be held on Monday to explain the investigation findings in detail.