📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Tinucherian
Crime
Petrol samples in Karnataka reveal up to 31.2% ethanol, flagging illegal over‑blending
✍️ Mangalore Today
🗓 07 Nov 2026, 02:38 PM
👁 1
Testing of petrol in Karnataka uncovered ethanol levels as high as 31.2%, far above the permitted limit, according to official Rizwan Arshad.
The Karnataka state fuel monitoring agency reported that recent laboratory analysis of petrol samples showed ethanol concentrations reaching 31.2 percent. The figure exceeds the legal blending ceiling of 10 percent set by the central government for motor fuel.
Rizwan Arshad, a senior official overseeing fuel quality compliance, described the results as evidence of illegal over‑blending. He said the agency is now initiating a detailed investigation to identify the sources of the non‑compliant batches and to enforce penalties under the Petroleum (Regulation) Act.
The over‑blending of ethanol can affect engine performance and increase emissions, prompting concerns among consumers and automotive manufacturers. Authorities have warned that any deviation from the prescribed blend ratio will attract strict action, including fines and possible suspension of licences for fuel suppliers.
The state government has pledged to intensify random sampling at petrol stations across Karnataka to ensure adherence to the mandated standards. A final report is expected within the next two weeks, after which corrective measures will be communicated to the public.
Rizwan Arshad, a senior official overseeing fuel quality compliance, described the results as evidence of illegal over‑blending. He said the agency is now initiating a detailed investigation to identify the sources of the non‑compliant batches and to enforce penalties under the Petroleum (Regulation) Act.
The over‑blending of ethanol can affect engine performance and increase emissions, prompting concerns among consumers and automotive manufacturers. Authorities have warned that any deviation from the prescribed blend ratio will attract strict action, including fines and possible suspension of licences for fuel suppliers.
The state government has pledged to intensify random sampling at petrol stations across Karnataka to ensure adherence to the mandated standards. A final report is expected within the next two weeks, after which corrective measures will be communicated to the public.