Canadian Gas Station Owner Defends Himself After Allegedly Selling Gas Mixed With Water

An Esso gas station owner in Elmvale, Ontario, is addressing the community after the facility sold water-contaminated gasoline to motorists in late March. Sukhwinder Kandhola, who has owned the station for eight years, stated the incident was an unintentional technical failure that is currently being investigated.

The problem was first identified on the evening of March 23 when multiple customers reported significant engine issues immediately after refueling. These motorists returned to the station to inform management of the malfunctions, leading Kandhola to summon pump and tank technicians for a site inspection.

Technicians who arrived the following morning advised Kandhola to immediately stop the sale of regular-grade gasoline. Following these reports, the Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) conducted its own inspection and officially shut down fuel operations at the site.

TSSA spokesperson Alexandra Campbell confirmed that the regulator is requiring a full review by an independent contractor. This process is designed to ensure that the leak detection monitoring systems for both underground tanks are fully operational before the station is allowed to reopen.

Kandhola told reporters that an engineering firm is still working to determine the exact cause of the water ingress. He noted that while he is working to rectify the situation with affected customers, the subsequent public reaction has become increasingly hostile.

The business owner reported that his family has been the target of blatant racism and hate speech across various social media platforms. Kandhola expressed concern for his children’s well-being, stating that the online comments have taken a significant toll on his family's mental health.

While many residents remain concerned about the potential for catastrophic engine damage, others in the Elmvale community have spoken out against the personal nature of the digital attacks. Kandhola maintains that his team did not knowingly distribute the contaminated fuel.

The TSSA continues to monitor the situation and will not permit fuel sales to resume until all safety standards are met. Engineering assessments are expected to continue throughout the week as the owner seeks to restore his business's reputation.