.Hardeep Singh Puri
NEW DELHI: Petroleum minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Thursday said E25 (petrol with 25% ethanol) is “only being tested” and no decision has been taken on its rollout, dismissing speculation over the issue.”We have not even decided on it and E25 is only being tested now,” he said, adding that the timeline for testing the fuel is not clear. Puri has maintained that the govt would complete scientific studies and consult all stakeholders before taking any decision.Road transport minister Nitin Gadkari told TOI that the petroleum ministry will take a call on matters relating to vehicle fuel. “Ethanol has a lower calorific value and has a minor impact on mileage. But that also depends on road and traffic conditions. I have always maintained that people should have a choice of alternative fuels available in different regions. For example, if a region has availability of methanol, which is cost-effective, people can opt for it. People can go for flex-fuel vehicles where higher blends of ethanol are available,” he said.Speaking to a private TV channel, Puri said Gadkari had issued an invitation to anyone who suffered engine damage due to blended fuel to approach him. He added that in cases of such complaints in the past, reasons other than fuel were identified as the cause.
