On the foundation day of Gujarat Alkalies and Chemicals Limited (GACL), Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel virtually inaugurated India’s largest Chlorotoluene plant at Dahej. Developed by GACL, a leading state-owned enterprise, this cutting-edge facility will utilize chlorine to manufacture high-value chlorine-based chemicals such as Benzyl Chloride, Benzyl Alcohol, and Benzaldehyde.
The plant, built with an investment of ₹350 crore, has an impressive annual production capacity of 30,000 tonnes. It is poised to contribute significantly to Gujarat’s industrial sector while reinforcing the state’s leadership in the specialty chemicals industry.
Driving Employment and Global Trade
Beyond its manufacturing capabilities, the new facility is expected to generate approximately 1,000 direct and indirect job opportunities, further strengthening the region’s economic landscape. Additionally, it is projected to earn around ₹130 crore in foreign exchange through exports to key international markets, including Europe, America, and South Asia.
Speaking at the event, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel congratulated the GACL team on their 50-year journey and lauded their role in advancing Gujarat’s industrial growth.
GACL: A Legacy of Innovation and Expansion
Providing insights into GACL’s operations, Executive Managing Director Avantika Singh highlighted the company’s steady growth since its establishment in 1973. With three production units—two in Dahej and one in Vadodara—GACL manufactures over 35 chemical products, including caustic soda. The company holds a unique position as India’s sole manufacturer of Sodium Chlorate and Hydrazine Hydrate, with an annual caustic soda production capacity exceeding 8 lakh metric tonnes.
The virtual inauguration event saw the presence of prominent dignitaries, including Chief Secretary Pankaj Joshi, Chief Minister’s Advisor S.S. Rathore, Additional Chief Secretary Manoj Kumar Das, and GIDC Managing Director Praveena DK, along with senior officials from GACL and the district administration.
This landmark project underscores Gujarat’s commitment to fostering industrial innovation, strengthening its export potential, and creating new employment opportunities in the chemical sector.
