E20 backlash: Delhi taxi unions to protest against ethanol-blended petrol on Aug 4

NEW DELHI, July 26: Following the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan after 36 days of protests by the CJP and students, the Delhi Taxi and Tourist Transporters and Tour Operation Association has announced a fresh demonstration.
The group plans to march to Parliament on August 4 to oppose the rollout of ethanol-blended petrol (E20).
According to The Week, association president Sanhjay Samrat explained that transport operators and vehicle owners nationwide have reported reduced fuel efficiency, higher maintenance costs, and engine performance issues since the introduction of E20 fuel.
He emphasized that many vehicles manufactured before 2015 are not designed to run on 20 percent ethanol-blended petrol, which is more suitable for newer models.
Holding sugarcane during his remarks, Samrat questioned why consumers paying full price for petrol are being supplied with blended fuel, adding that regulatory challenges are intensifying economic pressures on operators.
The association stated that the upcoming protest march will call for an independent scientific review of the ethanol blending policy.
They want this review to involve vehicle owners, consumers, transport operators, automobile manufacturers, and technical experts to ensure that the policy is both practical and fair.
In the press conference, Samrat listed the complaints vehicle owners and drivers have regarding the E20 fuel.
Drivers across the country have complained that the 20 per cent ethanol had reduced the mileage of the vehicles and increased the engine maintenance costs.
Association member Jitendra Bobby also objected to the speed limit of 80 kilometres per hour for commercial tourist vehicles.
He said that it was affecting business, time and customer satisfaction. Union minister for road transport and highways has repeatedly defended the E20 policy.
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, in defending the ethanol-blending policy, stated that pure petrol would become more expensive once the programme was fully implemented.
At the same time, speculation has emerged suggesting that the central government’s backing of ethanol mixing may be linked to Gadkari’s son, who is reportedly involved in ethanol production. (Agencies)