Punjab Newsline | Goa
Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday strongly criticised the Centre’s E20-blended petrol policy, alleging that it is causing reduced vehicle mileage, engine damage and higher costs for consumers.
Addressing a townhall meeting in Miramar, Goa, he claimed that a majority of vehicles in the country are not compatible with E20 fuel and accused the government of pushing the policy despite growing public concerns.
Kejriwal said Goa is among the worst-affected states due to its high number of two-wheelers and four-wheelers. He claimed that vehicle owners have reported a significant drop in mileage since E20 petrol became widely available and alleged that the fuel is damaging engines and fuel systems in older vehicles.
AAP leader also linked ethanol blending to rising sugar prices, alleging that large quantities of sugarcane have been diverted for ethanol production, leading to a shortage of sugar in the market. He questioned the government's claims that higher ethanol blending would reduce fuel costs and lower crude oil imports, arguing that consumers have not benefited from the policy.
Kejriwal further claimed that automobile manufacturers have privately expressed concerns about E20 fuel but are reluctant to speak publicly. Warning that the government may move towards higher ethanol blends such as E30 and E40 in the future, he urged consumers to remain cautious.
Targeting the BJP politically, Kejriwal said public anger over E20 could become an election issue in Goa and Uttar Pradesh. He urged voters to defeat the BJP in the upcoming Assembly elections, asserting that only strong political pressure would force the Centre to reconsider the fuel-blending policy.
