New Delhi. The 36-day-long student and Gen-Z protest at Jantar Mantar in Delhi has concluded. Preparations are underway for a larger movement against ethanol. The dissatisfaction of All India Tourist Permit (AITP) taxi drivers and transporters over the use of 20% ethanol-blended petrol (E20 fuel) in the country is now taking to the streets. The Delhi Taxi and Tourist Transporters and Tour Operators Association has announced a march to Parliament on August 4th to protest the E20 petrol policies, the declining mileage, and the stringent regulations.
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Association President Sanjay Samrat and other members presented the problems of transporters to the media. They were seen holding sugarcane as a symbol of protest.
E20 petrol is damaging the engines of older vehicles.
Addressing a press conference, Association President Sanjay Samrat listed the main complaints from vehicle owners and drivers regarding E20 fuel. Drivers across the country have complained that using petrol with 20 percent ethanol has reduced vehicle mileage and increased engine maintenance costs. He stated that most vehicles manufactured before 2015 are not compatible with petrol with a 20 percent ethanol blend. This fuel is primarily suitable only for newer models. When people are paying full price for petrol and fuel is becoming more expensive, why are they being given adulterated petrol?
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The association demanded an impartial and independent scientific review of the policy, involving vehicle owners, consumer rights groups, vehicle manufacturers, and technical experts.
Questions raised about the speed limit and scrappage policy
Association member Jitendra Bobby also strongly objected to the 80 km/h speed limit for commercial tourist vehicles. He said that while private vehicles are allowed to travel at high speeds on modern expressways and highways, commercial taxis and buses with All India Tourist Permits (AITPs) are restricted to 80 km/h. This is affecting our business, time, and customer satisfaction.
6 Key Demands of Transporters
First, an impartial review of the E20 policy: An independent technical and scientific review of the ethanol blending policy.
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Second, Panic Button and VLTD investigation: An audit/investigation should be conducted into the irregularities and implementation of mandatory panic buttons and Vehicle Location Tracking Devices (VLTDs) in vehicles.
Third, Relaxation of Speed Limits: The 80 km/h speed limit for tourist commercial vehicles should be reconsidered.
Fourth, Consideration of Vehicle Scrappage Policy: The policy of forcibly scrapping old vehicles should be reviewed.
Fifth, Removal of Ban on BS-IV Diesel Vehicles: The restrictions on BS-IV Diesel Tourist Vehicles should be improved.
Sixth, Toll Tax Relief: The exorbitant toll tax levied on national highways should be reduced.
The protest will be non-political.
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Sanjay Samrat clarified that the Parliament March on August 4th will be completely peaceful and non-political. He said, “We have no affiliation with any political party. This is purely a fight for the survival of commercial vehicle drivers and owners. We appeal to the central and state governments to initiate positive dialogue with all stakeholders and find solutions to our problems.” The association has also called on other taxi, cab, and truck unions across the country to join the march, which is expected to attract thousands of drivers.