Dewas fuel stations launch advisories amid E20 fuel concerns

Indore: Some petrol pumps in Dewas have begun displaying public advisories urging motorists to clean their vehicle fuel tanks regularly and take extra precautions during the monsoon to avoid fuel-related mechanical problems.

The initiative follows reports of maintenance issues linked to ethanol-blended petrol, particularly during the rainy season when the risk of moisture entering fuel systems increases.According to Achal Agnihotri, President of the Dewas District Petroleum Association, vehicle owners should ensure that fuel tanks remain properly sealed to prevent water contamination.“We frequently observe that vehicle fuel caps are not properly locked or their rubber seals are worn out.

This allows moisture to enter, causing ethanol to separate from the petrol and leading to engine problems,” Agnihotri stated, adding that petrol pumps strictly maintain similar precautions at their end.The awareness campaign is expected to expand to Indore. Rajendra Vasu, President of the Indore Petrol Dealers Association, said petrol stations in the city will also install similar posters to educate consumers about proper fuel system maintenance.

The advisories come amid feedback from motorists following the introduction of E20 fuel—petrol blended with 20% ethanol. According to Vasu, some consumers have reported premature fuel pump failures, higher maintenance costs, and fuel system issues, particularly when vehicles remain unused for long periods.Mechanics have also reported that ethanol’s tendency to absorb moisture can contribute to sensor malfunctions, moss-like deposits inside fuel tanks, and the formation of a black residue that may lead to fuel pump corrosion.

Some vehicle owners have claimed they needed multiple fuel pump replacements within a short period, even though the component has traditionally lasted for the lifetime of the vehicle.Despite these complaints, Vasu defended the ethanol blending programme, saying it is based on globally accepted and scientifically validated practices. He noted that ethanol blending in petrol has been increased gradually from 1.5% in 2013–14 to the current 20% level, a target achieved ahead of schedule in December 2025.Vasu also maintained that E20 fuel complies with Bharat Stage VI (BS VI) emission standards and said extensive testing has found no evidence of systemic damage to vehicles caused by the fuel.