The difficulties faced by motorists while driving in the severe winter conditions of high-altitude regions like Ladakh, due to the freezing of diesel fuel in their vehicles, have been alleviated with the introduction of a special winter-grade diesel. This strategic solution, developed by the Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL), is designed to remain fluid even under the region’s extreme winter temperatures, which sometimes drop as low as minus 30-degree celsius.
Understanding Winter Grade Diesel
Unlike regular diesel, which struggles to maintain its flow characteristics in sub-zero temperatures, the winter-grade diesel has a pour point of minus 33-degree celsius. The term ‘pour point’ refers to the temperature at which a liquid loses its flow characteristics. This special fuel adheres to the stringent Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) specification of BS-VI grade.
BS-VI Bharat Stage Norms
The BS-VI emission control standards are regulations enacted by the government to curtail air pollution. These standards, which are based on European regulations (Euro norms), set limitations on the release of pollutants from equipment powered by internal combustion engines, including vehicles. With each successive stage, these norms become more stringent.
| Key Improvements of BS-VI Over BS-IV |
|---|
| Lower Sulphur Content: The sulphur content has been lowered to 10 parts per million (ppm). Sulphur contributes to the emission of fine particulate matter. |
| Reduced Harmful Hydrocarbons: The level of certain harmful hydrocarbons in emissions, produced due to incomplete combustion of fuel, is sought to be reduced with this standard. |
Impacts of Winter Grade Diesel
The special winter-grade diesel promises to alleviate the struggles faced by locals regarding transportation and mobility during the harsh winter months. As a result, it holds the potential to bolster the local economy and the tourism sector in the region.
In summary, the advent of the winter-grade diesel provides a practical solution to the challenges of driving in extreme winter conditions in high-altitude areas. Its adherence to BS-VI norms ensures that this solution is also environmentally conscious.