Diesel mixed with water stalls 19 official vehicles ahead of CM Mohan Yadav’s visit

At least 19 official vehicles arranged for Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav’s visit broke down on Thursday (June 26, 2025) 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 fuel pump in Dosigaon village, where the vehicles — mostly SUVs — were refuelled and subsequently developed engine failure. Emergency repair work was undertaken at the site, while an investigation was launched into the matter.

Speaking to The Hindu, Ratlam District Collector Rajesh Batham said that initial testing of diesel samples taken from the pump indicated a “variation in diesel density”.

“An indicator that is installed at the pump also showed water content in their diesel, despite that they were giving it to customers,” Mr. Batham said. He added that the pump has been sealed and a formal inquiry is in progress.

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

Mr. Batham, however, clarified that the affected vehicles were not part of the Chief Minister’s convoy. “Several vehicles are called or hired for various official purposes and similarly these vehicles had been arranged and could have been used anywhere. The incident took place before they could be made part of the Chief Minister’s convoy or assigned any other role,” he said.

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

The incident led to confusion and activity at the pump, with officials from multiple departments, including the police, arriving to oversee the situation. Video clips from the scene showed several mechanics attempting to repair the affected vehicles. Additional vehicles were later requisitioned from Indore to ensure the smooth conduct of the event.