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Science
Scientists and activists call for pause on India's E20 ethanol fuel rollout
✍️ Hindustan Times
🗓 13 Sep 2026, 05:22 PM
👁 3
A coalition of scientists and environmental activists has urged the government to suspend the nationwide introduction of the 20% ethanol‑blended fuel, citing technical and safety concerns.
A group of leading scientists and several environmental NGOs have written to the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, requesting an immediate halt to the rollout of E20, the 20% ethanol‑blended gasoline planned for nationwide use. The letter outlines concerns that many older vehicles and small‑engine machines may not be compatible with the higher ethanol content, potentially leading to engine damage and increased emissions.
The coalition points to recent studies indicating that ethanol blends above 10% can cause corrosion in fuel lines and fuel pumps not designed for such mixtures. They also warn that the rapid implementation could strain the supply chain for ethanol, which is currently sourced from sugarcane and may affect farmer incomes.
While the government has previously announced the E20 rollout as part of its push for cleaner fuels and reduced oil imports, officials have not yet responded to the scientists' appeal. The petition seeks a comprehensive impact assessment before any further expansion of the program.
If the concerns are not addressed, the coalition says the policy could backfire, undermining both environmental goals and consumer confidence in fuel quality.
The coalition points to recent studies indicating that ethanol blends above 10% can cause corrosion in fuel lines and fuel pumps not designed for such mixtures. They also warn that the rapid implementation could strain the supply chain for ethanol, which is currently sourced from sugarcane and may affect farmer incomes.
While the government has previously announced the E20 rollout as part of its push for cleaner fuels and reduced oil imports, officials have not yet responded to the scientists' appeal. The petition seeks a comprehensive impact assessment before any further expansion of the program.
If the concerns are not addressed, the coalition says the policy could backfire, undermining both environmental goals and consumer confidence in fuel quality.