Methanol Poisoning and Illicit Liquor

Fatalities in the Kallakurichi (TN) liquor tragedy are linked to methanol poisoning.

Ethanol and Methanol in Illicit Liquor

Ethanol

• Ethanol, commonly referred to as alcohol, is naturally produced through the fermentation of sugars by yeasts or through petrochemical processes such as ethylene hydration.
• In India, ethanol is primarily obtained from molasses, a by-product of sugar manufacturing.
• Distilleries, often located near sugar factories, process molasses to produce rectified spirit.
• This rectified spirit is further distilled to create extra neutral alcohol (ENA), which is then used to make Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL).

Methanol

• Methanol is generally produced from coal and other fossil fuels. Unlike ethanol, methanol is highly toxic and unsafe for consumption.
• It is a crucial component in various industrial products, such as paints.
• Both ethanol and methanol are highly regulated substances. For instance, in Tamil Nadu, the production, transportation, and storage of methanol are strictly controlled through licensing.

Policy Recommendations

• Strengthening Legislation: Robust central legislation is needed to complement state laws and tighten control over methanol distribution.
• Inter-State Coordination: Laws like the Poisons Act should be enforced more stringently to monitor and regulate the inter-state supply of methanol.
• Separate Production Lines: As India plans to increase the production of both ethanol and methanol, it is crucial to maintain clear distinctions and prevent any cross-contamination between the two substances.
• National Priority: Preventing methanol pilferage and ensuring safe production and use should be a national priority, especially with plans to scale up methanol production as an alternative fuel source.