Apple Growers Worry As E20 Fuel Affects Performance Of Farm Machinery

Shimla : Orchardists across the apple belt of Himachal Pradesh are voicing deep concerns over the widespread introduction of 20% ethanol-blended petrol (E20). Growers claim the new fuel variant is significantly reducing engine efficiency, triggering frequent mechanical breakdowns, and escalating overall operational maintenance costs for vital farm machinery.

 Modern fruit cultivation relies heavily on petrol-powered handheld tools, including high-pressure sprayers, power weeders, brush cutters, and tillers. Growers state that the increased ethanol content is particularly destructive to older machinery and two-stroke engines, which were never manufactured to withstand corrosive ethanol properties.  Corrosion, Damaged Parts, and Rejected Warranty

ClaimsAccording to horticulturists from key production hubs like Rohru, the immediate drawback of E20 fuel is a visible decline in mileage per liter, meaning equipment runs out of fuel much faster during crucial spraying cycles.

Furthermore, technical experts note that ethanol attracts moisture and easily dissolves rubber or plastic components like fuel pipes, washers, and fuel injection seals, leading to clogged filters.  "Many small machinery manufacturers are explicitly refusing to honor warranty claims if the engine damage is traced back to the usage of ethanol-blended fuel." - Local Farmer Reports  

The transition has left small and marginal orchardists in a precarious position, as they cannot absorb the financial blow of replacing expensive machinery midway through the season.

In response to these challenges, several farming unions are urging the central government to introduce a phased, dual-fuel roadmap. They are demanding that fuel stations offer unblended regular petrol alongside E20, giving farmers a reliable option to safeguard their agricultural equipment and protect their profit margins.