Gujarat Ambuja Cements Ltd (GACL) has announced the completion of its cement-grinding unit at Darlaghat in Himachal Pradesh. The capacity of this plant has now increased by 600,000tpa. The expansion has been undertaken at a cost of about Rs500m. This additional capacity would now enhance Ambuja Group’s capacity to 15.5Mt from the existing 14.9Mt.

The cement mill will increase fly ash consumption. Raja Virbhadra Singh, Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh inaugurated the new cement facility.

Speaking at the inauguration, the Chief Minister congratulated GACL on the excellent progress made by the company in the state since 1995. He further added that the government is committed to enhance industrial development in the state. He also appreciated GACL for creating environmental friendly operations comparable to the best anywhere in the world and for creating job opportunities for the people of the State.

Suresh Neotia, Chairman, GACL present on the occasion said that this is a part of the group’s endeavour to strengthen its presence in North India. Neotia also thanked the Hon’ble Chief Minister and the Himachal Pradesh Government for their efforts in creating a conducive business environment, resulting in overall growth and development of the state and added that with the government’s focus on infrastructure development in urban and rural areas, demand for cement will increase.