India, Nov. 7 -- State-run oil marketing companies (OMCs) have decided that the over 93,000 petrol pumps nationwide will need to check their storage tanks and fuel dispensing nozzles for water every two to eight hours depending on shifts and weather conditions, to protect the quality of 20% ethanol-blended petrol (E20), persons aware of the matter said.

The first such order passing on the decision for more frequent testing was issued in July, and another more recently in late October by one of the OMCs, according to people aware of the matter. The other two OMCs may follow suit, they added. It comes at a time when rains have lashed certain parts of the country.

Most retail outlets (ROs) of Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) and Hindustan Petr...