'2k samples tested': Govt dismisses fuel adulteration claims, says only 2 cases found

The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas on Tuesday said additional checks have been introduced to detect fuel contamination and adulteration, dismissing reports of fuel-quality issues.“Fuel quality is monitored on a regular basis by Oil Marketing Companies,” the ministry said, adding that “further checks have been instituted” alongside existing testing protocols.The ministry said water-ingress testing is now being carried out 8-12 times a day at over 87,000 fuel outlets. More than 2,000 samples have also been tested for chloride and sulphide contamination, it said."It is hereby clarified that fuel quality is monitored on a regular basis by Oil Marketing Companies. In addition to the advanced and elaborate testing protocols already in place, further checks have been instituted including water ingress testing 8-12 times a day in over 87,000 outlets," it said.“Over 2000 samples have also been tested for chloride/sulphide. Only 2 cases of chloride contamination have been found in the entire country till now and sales from those pumps were suspended immediately,” the ministry added.It added that “strict action will be taken” if contamination or adulteration is found at any retail outlet. Oil marketing companies have also been instructed to take “proactive steps” to detect possible contamination across the fuel supply chain.Get the latest Business News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.