New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Monday dismissed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) challenging the nationwide rollout of 20% ethanol-blended petrol (E20), rejecting concerns that millions of Indian motorists are being forced to use fuel their vehicles may not be compatible with.

A bench comprising Chief Justice B.R. Gavai and Justice K. Vinod Chandran declined to entertain the petition filed by advocate Akshay Malhotra. The plea sought directions to the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas to ensure ethanol-free petrol remains available across all fuel stations.

The petitioner argued that vehicles manufactured before 2023, including some BS-VI models, were not designed for high ethanol blends like E20, and using it could lead to mechanical issues and efficiency loss. The plea also called for a nationwide impact study on the effects of E20 on non-compatible vehicles.

In addition, the plea sought mandatory labelling of ethanol content at petrol pumps and clear communication to consumers regarding the ethanol compatibility of their vehicles at the time of refuelling.

The Centre, opposing the plea, defended the E20 policy and highlighted its benefits, particularly for sugarcane farmers who supply the ethanol used in the blend.

The rollout of E20 is part of India's broader strategy to reduce dependence on fossil fuels, cut emissions, and support domestic ethanol production.

PTI inputs