인도, 휘발유에 식물 연료 섞었는데 차가 더 마신다

Imagine filling your car with fuel that helps the planet — but your wallet feels lighter every week. This is what drivers in India are facing right now.

India recently started mixing plant-based fuel into regular petrol at gas stations. This blend, called E20, contains about 20 percent ethanol made from crops like sugarcane. The government says this move helps fight air pollution and reduces the country's dependence on imported oil. On the surface, it sounds like a smart solution to two big problems at once.

But here is where the problem begins. Many drivers are unhappy. They report that their cars are drinking more fuel than before. A vehicle that once traveled 15 kilometers on one liter now might only go 12 kilometers. For people who drive long distances, this adds up fast. A daily commuter could spend hundreds of extra rupees each month.

There is another concern too: maintenance costs. Some car owners worry that E20 fuel could damage their engines over time. They say the ethanol blend might wear out engine parts more quickly, leading to expensive repairs. Not all cars are designed to handle this new fuel safely. Older vehicles and models not built for E20 are especially at risk. This creates a situation where drivers feel forced to pay more just to keep their cars running.

The government had good intentions. Biofuels are renewable and cleaner than pure petrol. They reduce greenhouse gases and help farmers who grow the crops used to make them. From an environmental standpoint, E20 makes sense. India also wants to become more independent from oil imports, which is an important goal for a growing economy.

Still, the real world does not always match the policy. Drivers are not thinking about climate change when they are worried about filling their tank twice a week instead of once. They are thinking about their monthly budget and whether their car will last. This disconnect between what government planners want and what ordinary people experience is a real challenge.

Some experts suggest that India could have rolled out this change more slowly, or offered support for drivers whose cars are not suited for E20. Others point out that car manufacturers need to be clearer about which vehicles can safely use this fuel. The conversation is still developing, and it shows how hard it is to balance environmental goals with everyday concerns.

Have you ever been affected by a big policy change that had both good and bad effects? What would you prioritize — the environment or your personal costs?

Inspired by reporting from BBC News.