Diesel disaster: 19 vehicles break down before M.P CM’s visit

 Bhopal

 At least 19 official vehicles arranged for Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav’s visit broke down on Thursday evening after allegedly being refuelled with water-contaminated diesel at a fuel station in Ratlam district, officials said on Friday.

The incident occurred around 8 p.m. at a petrol pump in Dosigaon village, where the vehicles, mostly SUVs, were refuelled and subsequently suffered engine failure. Emergency repair work was carried out on site, and an investigation was immediately launched.

Speaking to The Hindu, Ratlam District Collector Rajesh Batham confirmed that preliminary testing of diesel samples from the pump showed “a variation in diesel density.” 

“An indicator installed at the pump also detected the presence of water in the diesel, yet the fuel was still being sold to customers,” Mr. Batham said. He added that the pump has been sealed and a formal inquiry is underway.

An FIR has been registered against the fuel station management under relevant legal provisions.

Mr. Batham clarified that the affected vehicles were not part of the Chief Minister’s official convoy. “Several vehicles are hired or arranged for various official duties. These particular vehicles had not yet been assigned to the Chief Minister’s convoy when the incident occurred,” he said.

Chief Minister Yadav was in Ratlam on Friday to attend the Regional Industry, Skill, and Employment Conclave — MP Rise 2025.

The contamination incident caused confusion and chaos at the fuel station, prompting the arrival of officials from multiple departments, including the police. Videos from the scene showed mechanics attempting urgent repairs on the disabled vehicles. Additional vehicles were later requisitioned from Indore to ensure the event continued without disruption.