State-run Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) have dismissed recent claims of fuel contamination, asserting that extensive nationwide testing of E20 petrol confirmed that moisture and chloride levels remain strictly within prescribed technical limits. Responding to media reports alleging chloride concentrations up to 500 ppm, OMCs clarified that scientific testing across the entire supply chain showed no cause for public concern.
Random testing across refineries showed chloride content in base motor spirit consistently at or below 1 ppm. Simultaneously, a dedicated task force evaluating pure ethanol from 80 distilleries reported chloride levels under 3 ppm. Tests conducted at storage depots and terminals nationwide mirrored these findings, maintaining chloride presence under the 3 ppm mark.
At the retail level, analysis of over 160 station test reports revealed chloride concentrations ranging between 0 and 3 ppm. Out of more than 1,000 samples tested under the intensified surveillance drive, only four isolated instances showed elevated chloride levels. Operations at these specific stations were immediately suspended for root-cause analysis and corrective measures prior to resuming fuel distribution.
To safeguard fuel integrity against moisture, OMCs have instituted mandatory inspections across nearly 90,000 underground retail storage tanks, checking density and testing for water ingress 8 to 12 times daily. These inspections have revealed zero water ingress to date. Supported by mobile testing laboratories and independent third-party lab checks, OMCs reassured vehicle owners that E20 petrol supplied through authorized networks is safe and fully compliant with government standards.
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
