Thiruvananthapuram: The Civil Supplies Department has intensified inspections to determine whether fuel sold at petrol pumps across the state contains ethanol beyond the permissible limits. The government launched these checks following directives aimed at ensuring the quality of petrol and preventing irregularities in fuel sales.
In the initial phase, samples were collected from nine petrol pumps located in the districts of Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam, Kozhikode, and Kannur. These samples will be sent to expert laboratories for detailed analysis. The test results are expected within ten days.
The inspection drive was prompted by findings that several petrol pumps in Karnataka had sold fuel mixed with ethanol exceeding the allowed quantity. The Kerala government decided to conduct similar checks to ascertain if such malpractices are occurring in the state as well. The primary objective is to verify whether consumers are receiving fuel that meets prescribed quality standards and to prevent adulteration and other violations, stated Minister of Food and Consumer Affairs Anoop Jacob.
The investigation chiefly focuses on whether the ethanol content in petrol adheres to government-prescribed standards and if the overall quality meets the approved benchmarks. Although ethanol-blended petrol is currently in use nationwide, mandatory compliance with specified ratios and quality parameters is required. Detecting any breach of these limits or sale of substandard fuel will invite further action under applicable laws.
Samples were collected from three petrol pumps in Ernakulam district, and two each in Thiruvananthapuram, Kozhikode, and Kannur districts. Civil Supplies officials gathered the samples in the presence of sales managers of the pumps and representatives of respective fuel companies. According to the authorities, all legal protocols were strictly observed throughout the collection process.
From each petrol pump, six cans containing one litre of petrol each were collected. After sealing and preparing proper documentation, the samples were divided for further processing. Two of the six samples will be sent to Regional Chemical Examiners Laboratories, where the ethanol content and other quality parameters will be analyzed. Another two samples will be securely stored at the Civil Supplies office, and the remaining two will be handed over for safekeeping under the respective pump licenses.
This methodical preservation of samples allows for use in case of disputes or further investigations. The collection and transfer of samples complied with stringent safety standards, employing special containers approved by the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organization. These measures are designed to prevent any alteration in the chemical composition or quality of the fuel and to uphold the credibility of laboratory results.
Test operations were conducted at petrol pumps in Wayal and Kavadiyar areas of Thiruvananthapuram. In Ernakulam, inspections were carried out at Chempumukku and Irumpanam, with a total of three pumps sampled in the district. In Kozhikode, officials collected samples near the NGO Quarters and Sarovaram Park petrol pumps. Kannur district inspections included two pumps located in Kanothchal and Varam within the Kannur Corporation limits.
The authorities expect the test outcomes to be available within ten days. The results will clarify whether the ethanol blend percentage remains within permissible limits and if the fuel complies with specified quality standards. The government expects the inspection to help alleviate consumer concerns regarding petrol quality and to ensure transparency while protecting consumer interests in fuel sales.
So far, no irregularities have been confirmed from the pumps where samples were collected. Final conclusions about the presence of ethanol beyond allowed limits will only come after laboratory results are received. The government will decide on necessary follow-up actions based on these findings.
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Original Malayalam report: Malayalam Daily News
