Central government finally admits E20 petrol can damage vehicles

NEW DELHI: The Central government, which had repeatedly assured that E20 petrol would not damage vehicles, has finally corrected that. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari informed the Rajya Sabha that some rubber parts and engine gaskets of the vehicle may have to be replaced when using E20 petrol in BS3 vehicles manufactured between April 1, 2005 and 2016. The minister said that the damaged parts can be easily replaced during service and there will be no additional financial liability for this.

The minister also responded to the concerns about the mileage provided by E20 petrol. Not only the fuel but also many factors including driving style affect the mileage. A study jointly conducted by Indian Oil Corporation, IIP Dehradun, Automotive Research Association of India and SIAM have found that there is no need to modify the engine to use E20 petrol. This fuel does not adversely affect driving. Nitin Gadkari said that only BS3 vehicles are facing some difficulties.

Meantime, the campaign against E20 petrol is widespread. E20 petrol contains 80 percent petrol and 20 percent ethanol. The opposition is strongly opposing its nationwide introduction. A social media group has also formed against E20 petrol in the cockroach party model.

Vehicle owners are asking who is responsible for the damage caused to vehicles when it is clear that the new fuel will cause damage. They also say that it is not justified for them to bear the cost of damage to their vehicles due to reasons beyond their control. However, the Center has made it clear that no matter what