Monsoon Mayhem at the Pumps: Chennai Fuel Outlets Demand Water-Free Petrol to Protect Your Ride

As the monsoon clouds gather over Chennai, a significant concern is brewing at local fuel stations. Petroleum dealers across the city are making an urgent plea to oil marketing companies (OMCs) to revert to supplying non-ethanol blended petrol, or at least a lower blend like E5, during the upcoming rainy season.

This request isn't merely a preference; it stems from a critical need to safeguard vehicle engines and prevent widespread customer dissatisfaction.

The primary issue lies with ethanol-blended petrol, particularly the E20 variant (20% ethanol) currently in circulation. Ethanol is hygroscopic, meaning it readily absorbs moisture.

During the monsoon, when humidity is high and rainwater ingress is a constant threat, this property becomes a major liability. Even small amounts of water seeping into underground tanks at fuel stations, or condensing within vehicle fuel tanks, can mix with the ethanol, leading to phase separation. This results in a water-ethanol mixture settling at the bottom, and reduced octane petrol at the top, both detrimental to engines.

Dealers report a surge in complaints from motorists during the wet months.

Vehicle owners often face issues like sputtering engines, reduced performance, and even costly engine damage, particularly affecting two-wheelers and older vehicles which are more sensitive to fuel quality variations. These problems not only cause financial burdens for consumers but also tarnish the reputation of fuel outlets, who often bear the brunt of customer anger despite the problem originating from the fuel's composition.

The Petroleum Dealers’ Association is specifically requesting the supply of non-ethanol blended petrol (E0) or a minimal 5% blend (E5) from October to January.

This period typically sees the heaviest rainfall and highest humidity in Chennai, making it crucial to mitigate the risks associated with ethanol-water contamination. They point out that in the past, OMCs had indeed supplied non-ethanol blended petrol during monsoons in certain regions, demonstrating a precedent for such a logistical adjustment.

Ensuring the availability of water-resistant fuel during the monsoon is not just about convenience; it's about protecting consumers' investments in their vehicles and ensuring smooth, reliable transportation even in challenging weather conditions.

The dealers hope that OMCs will heed their call and implement this crucial change, preventing a potential wave of vehicle breakdowns and customer grievances during Chennai's impending monsoon season.