Mumbai Motorists Claim Petrol Mixed With Water at Fuel Pumps Amid Ongoing E20 Ethanol Blending Concerns (Watch Videos)
Mumbai motorists are sharing videos alleging petrol stations are dispensing fuel mixed with water and causing vehicle stalls. Users also reported performance issues linked to E20 ethanol-blended petrol. These incidents have sparked concerns regarding fuel quality control, public safety, and the need for stricter oversight at city fuel pumps.
Multiple videos going viral on social media have drawn attention to alleged irregularities at fuel stations in Mumbai and potential issues with the government's E20 ethanol-blended petrol, sparking discussions among motorists about safety, service quality, and vehicle performance. Amid Ethanol blending concerns, Mumbai motorists shared videos on Instagram claiming petrol mixed with water at fuel pumps in the city. One video shared by an Instagram user shows petrol mixed with water at a Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) fuel station.
A second reel documents a driver's experience with E20 petrol, the 20 per cent ethanol blend promoted to reduce emissions and fossil fuel dependence. The owner of a 2023 model car claims the fuel caused the vehicle to stall in the middle of the road. The post states that the entire tank had to be drained afterwards. "The new E20 fuel caused my car (2023 model) to stall in the middle of the road while I was driving. The entire tank had to be drained and has caused damage to the car. Finally, after much trying and tweaking it started again after refuelling with Speed 100," the post on Instagram read. Mumbai: Petrol Pump Allegedly Dispenses Water Instead of Fuel Amid Heavy Rain in Saki Naka (Videos).
Mumbai Motorists Share Videos Claiming Petrol Mixed With Water
A Clear Liquid Came Out Before Petrol After Fuel Tank Was Drained, Says Instagram User
It is worth noting that E20 petrol has been rolled out across India in phases, with proponents highlighting environmental benefits and compatibility with most modern engines. However, some users report concerns about performance in certain vehicles, particularly older models or those with specific fuel system sensitivities. Official guidelines generally affirm E20 compatibility for post-2020 vehicles, but individual experiences continue to circulate on social media.
Another user shared a video alleging to receive petrol mixed with water at a fuel station in Dadar. The user in a post on Instagram said, "On 3 July 2026, I refueled my Honda Activa 125 at City Service HP Petrol Pump, Siddhivinayak. Within minutes, my scooter suddenly stalled in the middle of moving traffic at a sharp turn near Sane Guruji Udyan, Prabhadevi, putting my life at risk." The user further added that a clear liquid came out before petrol after the fuel tank was drained completely. "The entire fuel system had to be cleaned," the user added.
These incidents have ignited a broader debate among Mumbai’s motorists regarding fuel quality standards and the practical implications of the E20 ethanol-blended petrol transition. While the government continues to promote the environmental necessity of ethanol blending, these recurring reports of fuel contamination and performance issues highlight an urgent need for stricter oversight and more transparent testing protocols at fuel retail outlets. Until authorities address these quality concerns and ensure better monitoring of storage and dispensing systems, consumer anxiety regarding vehicle safety and maintenance costs is likely to persist.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 08, 2026 09:38 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).