SHILLONG, JUN 23: Deputy Chief Minister in-charge Transport Sniawbhalang Dhar on Tuesday termed the introduction of ethanol-blended fuel a “trial process” and said it was premature to judge its impact on vehicles and consumers.
Dhar said the government would assess the fuel’s performance before taking a final decision, adding that its relatively lower price could benefit the public.
“It is a trial process. As of now, I cannot say yes or no, whether it is right or wrong. Let us hope, because every new initiative needs a trial. Let us trial it first. Since the rate is a little lower, it should be okay for the people. We will also look at it from other perspectives — if we use it, what are the drawbacks and what are the pluses and minuses for vehicles,” Dhar said.
He added that the transport department had not received any formal complaints from vehicle owners so far.
“We cannot say yes or no, good or bad, but as of now it is good. Nobody has complained. Maybe they are complaining to you, but let them complain to me officially so that I will know when to call a meeting,” he stated.
