With no end to social media claims over E20 fuel, govt issues another clarification
New Delhi: As the campaign against ethanol blended petrol showed no signs of ebbing, with all kinds of ‘information’ circulating on social media, including videos showing sugarcane juice being directly mixed with petrol, govt on Tuesday was forced to come out with another clarification, calling such claims over E20 fuel as “misleading and unsubstantiated."
Allaying public concerns, govt stressed that ethanol blending programme ( EBP ) was scientifically validated and is being continuously monitored. Petroleum ministry said no widespread instances of engine failure or vehicle breakdown attributable to ethanol blending have been reported since the introduction of E20 petrol.
“Govt of India has noted certain misleading and unsubstantiated claims being circulated on social media regarding ethanol-blended petrol, which appear to be aimed at confusing and misleading the public. It has also been observed that old images and videos are being recirculated in an apparent attempt to garner viewership through sensationalism and create unwarranted concerns regarding ethanol-blended fuel,” ministry said.
Its statement highlighted that EBP -- launched in 2003 to reduce crude oil imports, enhance energy security and promote environmental sustainability -- has been implemented in a phased manner based on technical preparedness and stakeholder consultations, culminating in the rollout of 20% ethanol blending (E20) from 2023 onwards. It added that govt has been monitoring its implementation in consultation with oil marketing companies, automobile manufacturers, fuel testing agencies and other stakeholders.
Allaying public concerns, govt stressed that ethanol blending programme ( EBP ) was scientifically validated and is being continuously monitored. Petroleum ministry said no widespread instances of engine failure or vehicle breakdown attributable to ethanol blending have been reported since the introduction of E20 petrol.
“Govt of India has noted certain misleading and unsubstantiated claims being circulated on social media regarding ethanol-blended petrol, which appear to be aimed at confusing and misleading the public. It has also been observed that old images and videos are being recirculated in an apparent attempt to garner viewership through sensationalism and create unwarranted concerns regarding ethanol-blended fuel,” ministry said.
Its statement highlighted that EBP -- launched in 2003 to reduce crude oil imports, enhance energy security and promote environmental sustainability -- has been implemented in a phased manner based on technical preparedness and stakeholder consultations, culminating in the rollout of 20% ethanol blending (E20) from 2023 onwards. It added that govt has been monitoring its implementation in consultation with oil marketing companies, automobile manufacturers, fuel testing agencies and other stakeholders.
Next Story