The Centre refuted media reports suggesting that Bhutan had declined an Indian proposal to import E20 petrol, clarifying that no such offer was extended by Indian Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs). There is no existing plan to export E20 petrol to Bhutan, as confirmed by the ministry. Reports had indicated Bhutan’s concerns over fuel storage infrastructure and vehicle compatibility with higher ethanol-blended fuel.
The media reports, citing Bhutanese officials, highlighted the country’s preference for conventional petrol over E20 due to technical and infrastructure challenges. Bhutan had reportedly raised issues regarding the hygroscopic nature of ethanol, potentially impacting fuel quality and posing risks to vehicle engines. The ageing underground fuel storage tanks in Bhutan’s mountainous terrain were seen as vulnerable to water seepage, leading to concerns about phase separation.
Contrary to the claims, the Centre emphasized that Indian OMCs had not proposed exporting E20 petrol to Bhutan. The reports suggesting Bhutan’s rejection of the offer were dismissed as unfounded. India’s E20 petrol initiative, blending 20% ethanol with petrol, plays a vital role in the government’s efforts to reduce crude oil imports, cut vehicular emissions, and boost domestic biofuel production. E20 petrol is now widely available across the country as part of the cleaner fuels rollout.
