This follows the earlier dispatch of Benzyl Chloride, with the plant set to generate substantial revenue and create numerous job opportunities.
Gujarat Alkalies and Chemicals Limited (GACL), a leading name in India's chlor-alkali industry, achieved a significant operational milestone on July 5, 2025, by flagging off the inaugural consignments of Benzyl Alcohol (BOH) and Benzaldehyde (BCHO) from its newly commissioned Chlorotoluenes plant in Dahej. This pivotal event underscores GACL's strategic vision to enhance chlorine utilization and bolster the domestic chemical manufacturing landscape.
The virtual flag-off ceremony was presided over by Ms. Avantika Singh, Managing Director of GACL, in the presence of various senior officials, marking a proud moment for the company.
GACL's Chlorotoluenes plant, India's largest with an installed capacity of 30,000 metric tonnes per annum (MTPA), represents a strategic investment aimed at converting chlorine—a co-product of caustic soda production—into high-value downstream chemicals. This forward-thinking approach not only optimizes resource utilization but also contributes to the circular economy by adding value to a byproduct.
The state-of-the-art facility is equipped to produce a diverse range of critical chemicals: 13,200 MTPA of Benzyl Chloride (BCL), 9,600 MTPA of Benzyl Alcohol (BOH), and 7,200 MTPA of Benzaldehyde (BCHO). These chemicals are indispensable raw materials across a multitude of industries, serving the pharmaceutical, perfumery, flavour, agrochemical, dyes, and solvent sectors. The availability of these domestically produced chemicals is expected to reduce India's reliance on imports, fostering self-reliance in key industrial segments.
Commenting on the significance of the dispatch, Ms. Avantika Singh highlighted that the plant's operational model, which utilizes toluene and chlorine as primary raw materials, perfectly aligns with GACL's commitment to integrated and sustainable chemical manufacturing practices. She projected that once the plant achieves full operational capacity, it is anticipated to generate an impressive annual revenue of approximately Rs. 400 crores. This includes substantial export earnings of Rs. 130 crores from international markets such as Europe, the USA, and South Asia, showcasing India's growing footprint in the global chemical trade.
Beyond its financial contributions, the project is poised to be a significant catalyst for economic development in Gujarat and across the nation. It is expected to create 150-200 direct job opportunities and a substantial 800-1,000 indirect employment opportunities, providing a boost to local livelihoods and regional economic growth.
With the successful commissioning and dispatch of products from this Chlorotoluenes plant, GACL reaffirms its unwavering commitment to innovation, self-reliance, and sustainable growth.
