New Delhi: Petrol and diesel conforming to Euro III emission norms would be supplied in metro cities from 2005, Petroleum Minister Ram Naik has said.

Euro-II compliant Petrol (with 0.05 per cent sulphur content and one per cent benzene) and diesel (with 0.05 per cent sulphur), currently being supplied in metro cities, would be extended to the rest of the country by 2005, Naik said in his keynote address at the 17th World Petroleum Congress in Brazil.

Speaking on "Sustainable Development: The Petroleum Industry, Perspective and Response", Naik said it was the responsibility of oil and gas industry to provide communities with affordable and eco-friendly energy sources, while also continuously adapting their operations to the needs of a fragile environment.

Oil industry has to continue the efforts to reduce pollution, improve quality of effluents and recycle resources, and promote conservation, he said adding their endeavour should be to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

"It makes good business sense for companies to holistically integrate the concept of sustainable development into their corporate vision, mission and strategies; the earlier they bring this exercise, the more benefits they will reap in the future," Naik said.

PTI