At petrol pumps across Ahmedabad and the rest of Gujarat, two-wheelers are being filled with a blend of 80% petrol and 20% ethanol per litre—yet consumers continue to pay the full price for petrol, currently ₹94.25 per litre.
According to a media report, Ethanol, an alcohol derived from sugarcane or starchy crops (chemical formula C₂H₆O), has been blended into petrol as part of a government initiative that began in 2014. The blending started at 1.53% and gradually increased to 15%, reaching 20% in recent years. While this move supports sugarcane farmers and helps reduce India’s crude oil import costs, there has been no price benefit passed on to vehicle owners.
Blending ethanol into petrol has also raised concerns, especially for two-wheeler users during the monsoon season. Ethanol attracts moisture, and even slight contact with water can cause engine starting issues. Aware of these problems, oil companies have installed notice boards at several fuel stations warning customers.
At the HP petrol pump in Gopal Chowk, Rajkot, for example, a board informs customers that the 20% ethanol blend is as per government directive. It advises extra care during monsoons or while servicing vehicles to avoid water contamination.
Many petrol pump operators across the state have put up similar notices to pre-empt complaints about fuel quality, especially when two-wheelers face starting troubles after refuelling.