In a significant stride towards bolstering India's chemical manufacturing capabilities and export potential, Gujarat Alkalies and Chemicals Limited (GACL) has inaugurated its state-of-the-art chlorotoluene plant in Dahej. The virtual inauguration, conducted by Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel on GACL's foundation day, marks a pivotal moment for the company and the region's industrial landscape.

The newly commissioned plant, constructed at a cost of Rs. 350 crore, is set to produce 30,000 tonnes of chlorotoluene derivatives annually. This substantial capacity positions it as India's largest facility of its kind, designed to manufacture high-value chlorine-based products including benzyl chloride, benzyl alcohol, and benzaldehyde. These chemicals are crucial raw materials for various industries, spanning pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and specialty chemicals.

Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, in his address, lauded GACL's 50-year legacy and its consistent contribution to Gujarat's industrial growth. He emphasized the plant's role in strengthening the state's position as a leading chemical manufacturing hub, and also highlighted the significant employment opportunities created by the project. The plant is expected to generate approximately 1,000 direct and indirect jobs, contributing to the region's economic development.

A key highlight of the project is its potential to significantly boost India's chemical exports. GACL anticipates generating around Rs. 130 crore in foreign exchange annually through exports to key markets in Europe, America, and South Asia. This surge in exports is expected to enhance India's trade balance and strengthen its position in the global chemical market.

Avantika Singh, Executive Managing Director of GACL and Secretary to the Chief Minister, provided detailed insights into the company's operations and expansion plans. She highlighted GACL's established presence with three production units in Dahej and Vadodara, manufacturing over 35 chemical products, including the vital caustic soda. GACL's annual production capacity of caustic soda exceeds 8 lakh metric tons, underscoring its significant contribution to the domestic chemical industry.

Furthermore, GACL holds the distinction of being India's sole manufacturer of sodium chlorate and hydrazine hydrate, demonstrating its technological prowess and market leadership. The chlorotoluene plant's integration of advanced manufacturing processes further reinforces GACL's commitment to innovation and industrial growth.

The new chlorotoluene plant not only enhances GACL's production capabilities but also aligns with the Gujarat government's vision of establishing the state as a global chemical production leader. By leveraging chlorine to manufacture value-added products, GACL is contributing to sustainable industrial growth and strengthening India's chemical industry. This initiative underscores GACL's dedication to innovation, expansion, and its role as a cornerstone of Gujarat's industrial development.