Supreme Court Dismisses Petition Against Ethanol-Blended Fuel
India’s Supreme Court has dismissed a petition challenging the government’s decision to roll out 20% ethanol-blended petrol, known as E20, across the country. The ruling clears the way for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s clean energy initiative, which aims to promote sustainable fuel use.
The petition was filed last month after motorists raised concerns when E20 became the only fuel available at nearly 90,000 filling stations nationwide. Many drivers worried about the impact on older vehicles, which may not be fully compatible with the blended fuel.
Government Defends Clean Energy Push
Attorney General R. Venkataramani told the court that the E20 programme had been carefully planned. He explained that the move would not only reduce emissions but also benefit farmers who grow sugarcane, the main source of ethanol in India.
In its response, the government argued that switching to ethanol-blended fuel was not a hasty or “mindless” decision. Officials emphasised that all concerns, including compatibility issues, had been taken into account before nationwide implementation.
Automakers and Industry Groups Ease Concerns
Some automakers initially expressed doubts over whether E20 would work safely with older cars and two-wheelers. However, they later withdrew their objections as testing and discussions progressed.
Over the weekend, the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) reassured consumers that E20 poses no safety risks. P.K. Banerjee, SIAM’s executive director, acknowledged that mileage in older vehicles may decline, but stressed that safety would not be compromised. The statement was made during a press conference in New Delhi, attended by automakers, fuel retailers, and other industry representatives.
The government has positioned the E20 rollout as a critical step towards cutting carbon emissions, reducing fuel imports, and supporting farmers. Despite initial resistance, the transition appears set to continue across the country.
with inputs from Reuters
