Delhi’s commercial vehicle associations plan a protest at Parliament House next month over ethanol-blended petrol, citing higher running costs and performance problems in older fleets.
Taxi and tourist transport operators in the national capital have announced a march to Parliament on August 4 to protest the mandatory use of E20 petrol, which contains 20 percent ethanol.
According to details received by The Chenab Times, the Delhi Taxi and Tourist Transporters and Tour Operators Association said operators across the country have reported lower fuel efficiency, increased maintenance expenses and engine-related concerns after the introduction of E20. The association stated that many vehicles manufactured before 2015 were not designed for the higher ethanol blend, which it described as more suitable for newer models.
Association president Sanjay Samrat told a press conference that transport operators and vehicle owners are facing growing economic pressure. He questioned why consumers paying for petrol are supplied with blended fuel while prices continue to rise. Samrat said the association will use the march to demand an independent scientific review of the ethanol blending policy. The review, he said, should involve vehicle owners, consumers, transport operators, automobile manufacturers and technical experts.
Jitendra Bobby, a member of the association, separately called for a review of the mandatory 80 kmph speed limit imposed on All India Tourist Permit taxis and buses. He argued that modern highways and expressways allow higher speeds for private vehicles, yet commercial tourist vehicles remain restricted, affecting operational efficiency, passenger satisfaction and business viability.
The association has listed several other demands. These include an audit of the implementation of panic buttons and vehicle location tracking devices, a review of vehicle scrappage policies that affect older vehicles, reconsideration of restrictions on BS-IV diesel tourist vehicles, and a reduction in high toll taxes.
Samrat emphasised that the protest will be peaceful and non-political. He said the association is not linked to any political party and seeks constructive dialogue with the central and state governments to address the concerns of commercial vehicle users. The group has invited other taxi and truck unions to join the march and expects thousands of drivers and operators to take part.
India’s ethanol blending programme aims to reduce dependence on imported oil, support farmers and lower emissions. The government has advanced the E20 target, with blending levels approaching 20 percent in the current supply year. Officials have maintained that E20 is safe for compatible vehicles and that warranties remain valid. Pure petrol continues to be available at some outlets at a premium.
Commercial operators in Delhi, who rely heavily on high-mileage vehicles, say the practical impact on older fleets has raised operating costs at a time when regulatory requirements and fuel prices already strain margins. The August 4 march is intended to highlight these operational realities before Parliament and press for a broader technical assessment of the policy’s effects on the transport sector.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
