Fuel Scam Busted: Check If Your Fuel Is Adulterated!

📰 What Happened?

In a recent crackdown, authorities exposed a major fuel adulteration scam in [State/City] where several petrol pumps were found mixing kerosene and other low-grade chemicals with petrol and diesel. This not only caused engine damage for vehicle owners but also led to increased emissions and reduced mileage.

With fuel prices already sky-high, compromised fuel quality is the last thing drivers want.

🛢️ What is Fuel Adulteration?

Fuel adulteration is the illegal mixing of cheaper substances (like kerosene, naphtha, or solvents) into petrol or diesel to increase profit margins. This:

  • Reduces your car’s performance and mileage

  • Harms engine parts, injectors, and spark plugs

  • Increases harmful emissions

  • May even void your vehicle warranty

🔍 How to Spot Adulterated Fuel?

Here are some signs and tests you can try:

🚘 Performance Symptoms

  • Sudden drop in mileage

  • Engine knocking or misfiring

  • Black smoke from exhaust

  • Poor acceleration

🧪 Basic Home Tests (Caution: Be Safe!)

1. Water Test (for Petrol)

  • Mix petrol with equal parts water in a transparent bottle.

  • Shake well and let it settle.

  • Pure petrol will stay clear and float. If it turns cloudy or separates oddly, it may be adulterated.

2. Filter Paper Test

  • Put a few drops of petrol on white filter paper and let it evaporate.

  • Pure petrol leaves no stain. If there’s an oily or colored residue, it’s likely adulterated.

3. Smell Test

  • Petrol mixed with kerosene or turpentine smells different — unusually sharp or pungent.

⚠️ Note: These are informal methods and not 100% foolproof. For accurate results, contact certified fuel testing labs or complain to your RTO or fuel company.

🧾 How to Protect Yourself

  • Always fuel up from reputed petrol stations.

  • Ask for a density check (they must provide it on request).

  • Keep a record of mileage after each refill — sharp drops indicate an issue.

  • If suspicious, immediately file a complaint with the oil company (IOC/BPCL/HP) or call the Consumer Helpline.

📞 Where to Report?

  • IOC Helpline: 1800-2333-555

  • BPCL Helpline: 1800-22-4344

  • HPCL Helpline: 1800-233-3555

  • mParivahan App → Fuel Complaint section

🧠 Final Thoughts

Fuel adulteration isn’t just about money — it’s about safety, environment, and performance. Stay informed, test smartly, and report wrongdoing.