Kejriwal Announces March Against E20 Petrol
Aam Aadmi Party national convenor Arvind Kejriwal has announced a march to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s residence over the E20 petrol rollout, demanding fuel choice and revised pricing for consumers.
Kejriwal Announces E20 Petrol March
Kejriwal said he would lead a group to the Prime Minister’s residence on August 4 to submit petitions collected during AAP’s campaign against the mandatory availability of E20 petrol. Some initial reports listed August 3, but subsequent accounts placed the march on August 4.
The announcement followed a national town hall in New Delhi where vehicle owners, experts and campaigners discussed concerns surrounding ethanol-blended petrol.
AAP said its online campaign had collected more than two lakh signatures from citizens seeking changes to the fuel policy.
AAP Demands Consumer Fuel Choice
Kejriwal demanded that fuel stations offer pure petrol, E10 and E20 so motorists can select the blend compatible with their vehicles. E20 contains 20% ethanol and 80% petrol.
He also called for E20 to be sold at a lower price, arguing that its reduced energy content can affect fuel economy. The government has acknowledged that E20 may reduce mileage by approximately 2% to 6%, depending on vehicle design and compatibility.
Kejriwal claimed motorists had also reported engine performance and maintenance concerns. Such complaints have not established that E20 universally damages vehicles, while models certified for the blend are designed to operate on it.
Government Defends E20 Petrol Policy
The Centre maintains that ethanol blending reduces crude oil imports, lowers certain emissions and increases income for sugarcane farmers and ethanol producers.
India advanced its 20% ethanol-blending target to 2025-26 and has expanded E20 availability nationwide. However, concerns remain about older vehicles designed for lower ethanol blends, fuel efficiency and the absence of alternative petrol grades at many filling stations.
