Chandigarh, 04 August (H.S.): The Punjab Vidhan Sabha on Tuesday passed a resolution urging the Central Government to review and suspend the mandatory nationwide rollout of E-20 petrol for vehicles that were not originally designed or certified to use the fuel.

The resolution was moved by Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema, who expressed serious concern over the compulsory supply of petrol blended with 20 per cent ethanol without adequately addressing the interests of consumers, vehicle owners, farmers and state governments.

While acknowledging that reducing crude oil imports, strengthening energy security and promoting environment-friendly fuels are important national objectives, the House said such policies should be introduced transparently and on the basis of scientific assessment.

The resolution noted that millions of vehicles across the country, including a large number in Punjab, were manufactured before E-20-compatible engines became standard. It raised concerns about possible damage to fuel-system components, reduced mileage, higher maintenance expenses, warranty-related disputes and a decline in vehicle resale value.

According to the resolution, the financial burden of the transition could fall heavily on middle-class families, farmers, transporters, small business owners, employees, students and daily commuters. Higher fuel and transport costs could also increase agricultural expenses and freight charges for essential commodities.

The House pointed out that the E-20 implementation target had been advanced by five years from the original 2030 schedule, leaving manufacturers, consumers and farmers with insufficient time to prepare.

The Assembly urged the Centre to provide consumers with a choice between ethanol-free petrol and E-20 petrol. It said owners of vehicles not certified for E-20 should not be directly or indirectly compelled to use the blended fuel.

The resolution also demanded that the retail price of E-20 petrol should reflect its comparatively lower calorific value and reduced fuel efficiency, so that consumers are not charged the same price for fuel that may deliver lower mileage.

It recommended the formation of an independent committee comprising automobile engineers, petroleum experts, environmental scientists, consumer organisations and representatives of state governments. The committee should assess vehicle compatibility, fuel efficiency, maintenance costs, environmental effects and the overall financial impact on consumers.

The House also called upon the Union Government to publish all scientific, engineering and economic data relating to E-20 petrol. It sought a compensation mechanism for consumers who suffer proven financial loss or mechanical damage due to the compulsory use of E-20 in incompatible vehicles.

Copies of the resolution will be forwarded to the President, Prime Minister, concerned Union ministers and the Vice-Chairman of NITI Aayog for consideration.

Hindusthan Samachar / GURSHARAN SINGH