The state has begun testing fuel samples in four districts after Karnataka reported ethanol levels as high as 31.2 per cent.
The Kerala government has launched random inspections at fuel outlets in Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam, Kozhikode and Kannur to check ethanol levels in petrol, according to The Hindu. Food and Civil Supplies Minister Anoop Jacob announced the move on Monday, November 9, 2026, following reports from Karnataka that petrol contained ethanol far above the prescribed 20 per cent level.
The decision follows consumer complaints regarding vehicle damage and reduced mileage. Minister Jacob said the inspections aim to address public apprehensions and establish facts, noting that no instances of excess ethanol blending have been reported in Kerala so far. He stated that the government would initiate prosecution and potentially seal pumps if excess ethanol is found.
In Karnataka, tests reportedly found ethanol content as high as 31.2 per cent in some samples. The Centre and oil marketing companies have rejected those findings, questioning the scientific methods and sampling used in the tests. Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar had previously sought action against oil companies and compensation for motorists.
Thiruvananthapuram District Supply Officer Smitha S.R. said samples are being sent to a lab accredited by the National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL) for analysis. Six samples were collected on Monday in the presence of oil company representatives. Results from the tests are expected within 10 days.
