On the foundation day of Gujarat Alkalies and Chemicals Limited (GACL), Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel virtually inaugurated India’s largest Chlorotoluene plant, established by GACL at Dahej, Gujarat. Chlorotoluenes are compounds where one or more of the hydrogen atoms in toluene (methylbenzene) are substituted with a chlorine atom. They are used as solvents, intermediates in the synthesis of other chemicals, dyes, and pharmaceuticals. They can also be used as insecticides.
Key Highlights of the Chlorotoluene Plant
- Investment: Built at a cost of ₹350 crore.
- Production Capacity: 30,000 tonnes per year.
- Products Manufactured: Benzyl Chloride, Benzyl Alcohol, and Benzaldehyde (value-added chlorine-based products).
- Employment Generation: Expected to create around 1,000 direct and indirect jobs.
- Foreign Exchange Earnings: Estimated at ₹130 crore through exports to Europe, America, and South Asia.
About Gujarat Alkalies and Chemicals Limited (GACL)
- Established in 1973, GACL is a state-owned enterprise.
- Operates three production units: two in Dahej and one in Vadodara.
- Manufactures over 35 chemical products, including caustic soda.
- Holds the distinction of being the only manufacturer in India of Sodium Chlorate and Hydrazine Hydrate.
- Annual production capacity of caustic soda: Over 8 lakh metric tonnes.
Significance of the New Plant
- Strengthens India’s chemical manufacturing sector and self-reliance in chlorine-based products.
- Boosts Gujarat’s industrial growth and employment opportunities.
- Enhances India’s export potential in the global chemical market.