Excess ethanol in petrol: Keralam launches random checks at pumps after Karnataka detects high levels
The Kerala government has initiated random inspections at fuel stations following reports from Karnataka that petrol samples contained ethanol levels as high as 31%, exceeding the mandated 20% limit. Authorities are collecting samples for NABL-accredited lab testing to ensure consumer safety and regulatory compliance.
Why it matters
Excessive ethanol blending can damage vehicle engines and raises significant concerns regarding fuel quality transparency and regulatory oversight in the energy sector.
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM After sample testing in Karnataka revealed that petrol sold by several major oil companies in the State contained ethanol far above the prescribed 20% level, the Keralam government has also begun inspections in fuel outlets to check ethanol levels. Food and Civil Supplies Minister Anoop Jacob on Monday (November 9, 2026) announced random inspections at fuel outlets in four districts – Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam, Kozhikode and Kannur. Lab tests show ethanol blend in E20 petrol as high as 31% in Karnataka storyline 1 Suresh Gopi defends E20 petrol, says Karnataka, Kerala free to conduct own studies Suresh Gopi defends E20 petrol, says Karnataka, Kerala free to conduct own studies Suresh Gopi defends E20 petrol, says Karnataka, Kerala free to conduct own studies shorts 1 Thiruvananthapuram District Supply Officer Smitha S.R.
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