Kushtia innovator Monirul hits the jackpot with diesel alternative fuel

While farmers across the country are worried about irrigation due to the diesel crisis, local inventor Monirul Islam has come to the discussion with a different initiative in Daulatpur upazila of Kushtia.

He has claimed to create alternative fuel from burnt mobil (used engine oil), which he said will be used to run diesel-powered irrigation machines.

Monirul Islam said that he started researching diesel engines since 2007. He left teaching to focus entirely on research. Based on long-term efforts and experience gained abroad, he claims that he has recently been able to start using this fuel effectively.

His invented method uses four ingredients, of which a special 'booster' plays a key role. According to him, by mixing a small amount (about 100 milligrams) of booster with five liters of burnt mobil, a fuel can be created that is capable of doing the same work as about seven liters of diesel. This mixture has been named ‘Method of Alternative Diesel’ (MAD).

Local farmers say that this innovation has brought them great relief. Where earlier there was a problem in collecting diesel for irrigation, now water can be easily supplied to the fields. Irrigation activities are being carried out using this fuel in fields of various crops including paddy, jute and banana.

However, experts have advised caution. An instructor of the Farm Machinery Department of Hossainabad Technical School and College said that using such fuel can cause long-term damage to the engine. He also mentioned that its use without proper testing can be risky.

The local agriculture department is also monitoring the matter in this regard. The upazila agriculture officer said that the effectiveness of this fuel is being verified at the field level. Although initial positive results have already been seen, further tests are needed to confirm whether it has any negative effects.

The upazila administration is also looking into the matter seriously. Officials concerned say that although such innovations are promising in the context of the energy crisis, a decision will be taken after government scrutiny.

According to those concerned, if the tests are successful, this initiative can reduce the cost of production for farmers and open up new horizons in dealing with the irrigation crisis.