GHCL Receives Green Light for ₹6,500 Crore Soda Ash Plant in Kutch

GHCL
Image Courtesy: GHCL

GHCL Ltd has secured environmental clearance from the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change for its Greenfield Soda Ash project in Kutch, Gujarat. The approval, granted on December 12, 2024, allows GHCL to proceed with plans to establish a 1.1 MMTPA Soda Ash facility over the next six years with an investment of ₹6,500 crore.

Managing Director R.S. Jalan highlighted the significance of the project, stating, “This approval marks a crucial step in supporting India’s vision for Green Energy and AtmaNirbharta.” He further noted that as India progresses towards its goal of achieving 500 GW of green energy capacity by 2030, the demand for Soda Ash is projected to rise to 7.0 MTPA. India’s current production of 3.6 MTPA accounts for only 6% of global output, underscoring the need for enhanced capacity.

GHCL, already the second-largest Soda Ash manufacturer in India, aims to nearly double its production capacity through this new facility. The upcoming plant will feature state-of-the-art technology and prioritize sustainability by incorporating green energy solutions.

Beyond production, the project is expected to spur economic growth in the region. It will foster the development of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in sectors such as logistics and packaging, contributing to local employment and prosperity. The company emphasized its commitment to uplifting local communities as part of this initiative. GHCL Limited specializes in the production of Soda Ash (Anhydrous Sodium Carbonate), a key ingredient for the detergent and glass industries, as well as Sodium Bicarbonate (baking soda). Following a demerger, its spinning business has been transitioned into GHCL Textiles Limited.

Guided by the ‘GHCL Way,’ sustainability is integral to its business strategy, built on four pillars: Responsible Stewardship, Social Inclusiveness, Promoting Relationships, and Adding Value. GHCL is dedicated to fostering sustainability at its plant locations by collaborating with stakeholders, rooted in its core values of Respect, Trust, Ownership, and Integrated Teamwork.