Patna: The Bihar government has moved to make biodiesel more accessible in rural areas by easing regulations for setting up biofuel pumps along village roads, Patna Press reported.
Officials from the Rural Works Department said the state plans to allow biofuel retail outlets in every village, aiming to improve access to cleaner fuel in regions where availability has been limited. Earlier, unclear procedures, especially for using government land to build connecting roads, had made establishing such pumps difficult. Rules framed in 2018 did not clearly explain how biofuel stations could be approved.
To streamline the process, the state has formed a committee led by the Chief Engineer to develop a clear approval framework for biodiesel pumps in villages. The committee will propose rules similar to those followed for petrol stations, after which the government will issue updated guidelines.
Biodiesel, produced from vegetable oils, animal fats, and organic waste, emits fewer pollutants than conventional diesel. Officials said the initiative is expected to encourage cleaner fuel use while also creating job opportunities in rural areas.
