OMCs refute chloride contamination, excess moisture in E20 fuel
State-owned oil marketing companies have officially refuted claims of chloride contamination and excess moisture in E20 fuel. They cited extensive testing across the supply chain to reassure the public of the fuel's safety and quality standards.
Why it matters
This response addresses public and industry concerns regarding the safety of ethanol-blended fuel, which is critical for the government's long-term energy transition strategy.
State-owned oil marketing companies (OMCs) on Friday (August 7, 2026) rejected allegations of chloride contamination in E20 fuel, stating that additional intensive testing conducted at retail outlets, refineries, and at the point of ethanol procurement confirmed that chloride levels remained within the prescribed limits.
In a joint statement, the OMCs — IndianOil, Bharat Petroleum and Hindustan Petroleum — also refuted allegations regarding excess moisture in the blended-petrol fuel validated from water-ingress testing.
“Contrary to certain assertions being made, based on extensive random testing through scientifically designed tests, the evidence shows that there is no cause for any alarm on fuel contamination,” the statement said.
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