New Delhi, July 18 -- The nationwide rollout of E20 fuel-petrol blended with 20% ethanol-has triggered an intense debate, with industry experts and political leaders expressing differing views on its pricing and impact.

Former Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) Chairman and Managing Director MK Surana has addressed concerns surrounding the cost of ethanol-blended petrol, clarifying that consumers should not expect the fuel to be cheaper, according to a CNBC-TV18 report.

Surana, speaking during a panel discussion, rejected the widespread perception that higher ethanol blending would automatically reduce petrol prices. He pointed out that ethanol currently costs between Rs.56.71 and nearly Rs.71 per litre, while the ex-refiner...