Petrol Density Anomaly at IndianOil Outlet
On December 20, 2014, I discovered something concerning at an IndianOil petrol pump in Tamil Nadu: the petrol density measured significantly higher than standard specifications, suggesting potential adulteration.
The Discovery
Normal Petrol Specifications
- Standard density: 710-770 kg/m³ at 15°C
- What I measured: 860 kg/m³
- Deviation: 90-150 kg/m³ higher than normal
This significant deviation indicates potential adulteration with heavier substances.
Potential Causes & Impact
Possible Adulterants
- Kerosene (cheaper, but legal controls strict)
- Naphtha or other petrochemical byproducts
- Contamination from storage/transport
Impact on Vehicle
- Engine damage – Incomplete combustion, carbon buildup
- Reduced efficiency – Lower mileage, power loss
- Emissions – Increased pollutants
- Sensor issues – Oxygen sensor, catalytic converter damage
My Response
1. Filed Official Complaint
Submitted complaint to IndianOil customer care with measurement data, location, date/time.
2. Received Generic Response
Got standard assurance about "maintaining quality standards" without specific investigation details about my report.
3. Social Media Escalation
Shared experience on Twitter/Facebook tagging IndianOil official accounts. Public attention sometimes drives action where private complaints don't.
What Consumers Should Do
Document Everything
- Take photos/videos of pump display and vehicle odometer
- Note exact date, time, location, pump number
- Keep fuel receipt
- Record unusual symptoms (knock, reduced mileage, etc.)
Request Testing
Consumers have right to request hydrometer check at pump. Fuel density should be tested in your presence.
File Complaints at Multiple Levels
- Pump manager – Immediate escalation
- Oil company customer care – IndianOil/BPCL/HPCL helplines
- Legal Metrology Department – State-level regulatory authority
- Consumer forum – If damage occurred
- Social media – Public companies respond to public complaints
Legal Metrology Contact
Each state has Legal Metrology Department that regulates fuel quality and quantity. Search "[Your State] Legal Metrology Department" for contact details.
Red Flags of Fuel Adulteration
- Sudden drop in fuel efficiency
- Engine knocking or unusual sounds
- Difficulty starting engine
- Black smoke from exhaust
- Fuel smells different than usual
- Unusually cheap prices (too good to be true)
Prevention Tips
- Use reputable pumps – Busy, well-maintained locations
- Track mileage – Sudden drops indicate issues
- Avoid suspiciously cheap fuel
- Prefer branded outlets – Better monitoring and accountability
- Request sealed dispenser – Check that seals are intact
Consumer Rights
Under Consumer Protection Act and Legal Metrology Act, consumers have right to:
- Accurate quantity (no meter tampering)
- Quality fuel meeting specifications
- Testing in presence of customer
- Compensation for damage caused by adulterated fuel
- File complaints without harassment
Why It Matters
Fuel adulteration isn't just about money—it's about:
- Safety – Engine damage can cause accidents
- Environment – Improper combustion increases pollution
- Economy – Repair costs far exceed fuel savings
- Trust – Undermines confidence in supply chain
Outcome & Reflection
My complaint was acknowledged but I never received specific investigation results. This highlights a systemic issue: individual consumer complaints often disappear into bureaucracy unless they generate sustained pressure.
Lessons learned:
- Documentation is crucial—without evidence, complaints are dismissed
- Multiple complaint channels increase chances of action
- Public complaints (social media) get faster responses than private ones
- Consumer awareness and activism drive accountability
If you suspect fuel adulteration, don't stay silent. Document, report, escalate. Your complaint might prevent others from suffering damage.