Chandigarh, 04 August (H.S.): Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Tuesday raised strong objections to the mandatory rollout of E-20 ethanol-blended petrol during the Punjab Vidhan Sabha session, alleging that the policy was imposed without adequate scientific study and was causing financial hardship to vehicle owners.

Winding up the debate, Mann said the Central Government had itself admitted in Parliament that E-20 petrol could reduce vehicle mileage. He questioned why the nationwide implementation target, originally fixed for 2030, had been advanced to 2026 without sufficient preparation, public consultation or vehicle compatibility checks.

The Punjab Vidhan Sabha subsequently passed a resolution urging the Centre to provide consumers with the option of choosing between ethanol-free petrol and E-20 at fuel stations. The House also demanded a reduction in the price of E-20 to reflect its lower fuel efficiency and protect consumers from additional financial burden.

Citing a survey of more than 45,000 vehicles, the Chief Minister claimed that 67 per cent of users reported reduced mileage, while 45 per cent complained of engine-related damage. He said owners of older vehicles, particularly those designed for E-10 petrol, were being forced to bear higher repair and maintenance costs.

Mann alleged that the accelerated rollout was linked to a proposed trade arrangement with the United States, under which India could significantly increase ethanol imports over the next five years. He claimed that the move would benefit foreign producers and large corporate interests while placing the burden on Indian consumers.

The Chief Minister said ordinary families often purchase vehicles through years of savings or loan instalments and should not be forced to pay for mechanical damage caused by an incompatible fuel policy. He also referred to a public campaign led by AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal, claiming that more than two lakh signatures had been collected against the compulsory implementation of E-20.

Mann further criticised BJP legislators for not participating in the debate and said Punjab would continue to raise the issue in the interest of consumers, farmers, transporters and daily commuters.

He reiterated that petrol stations must offer both pure petrol and E-20 and that consumers should be allowed to make an informed choice. Mann said he had written to the Prime Minister, Union Home Minister, Petroleum Ministry and other concerned authorities, urging them to review the policy and safeguard vehicle owners from avoidable financial and mechanical losses.

Hindusthan Samachar / GURSHARAN SINGH