Karnataka reports petrol samples above 20% ethanol limit

Karnataka says state-commissioned tests found ethanol levels above the 20% limit in several petrol samples, including readings of 31.2% in fuel attributed to Indian Oil and 30.5% in fuel attributed to Hindustan Petroleum. The state is seeking action against companies found to have exceeded the limit and protections for motorists whose vehicles may be affected. Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Minister Rizwan Arshad announced the findings on Friday, November 6. According to the state, samples were tested by laboratories accredited by the National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories and recognised under international standards. The underlying laboratory reports have not been made public in the accounts of the findings. The reported results also included ethanol levels of 27% in another Hindustan Petroleum sample, 26.5% in fuel attributed to Bharat Petroleum, 26.1% in a Nayara sample and 25.5% in a Shell sample. The state said several samples exceeded 20%, while some tested below that level. It reported collecting 63 samples from locations across Karnataka, including Bengaluru and other districts. Arshad said samples were first sent to Indian Oil...