UltraTech Cement announces commissioning of a greenfield clinker capacity of 2.5 mtpa at Manawar, Madhya Pradesh (M.P.). The plant has been commissioned in record time of less than 365 days-setting a global benchmark for size of such capacity. Yet another benchmark is setting up the greenfield plant at less than USD 90/mt.

The Kiln is designed for multi fuel and the entire system of using alternative fuels, which enhances the energy efficiency and reduces environmental impact, is an integral part of the plant. Along with the kiln, UltraTech has also commissioned a cement grinding facility of 1.75 mtpa capacity and an auto loading facility. This state-of-the-art manufacturing facility has been built with best in class safety standards. Another cement grinding facility of 1.75 mtpa capacity as well as a waste heat recovery system of 13 MW capacity is under erection and both are expected to be completed before September, 2018.

The plant is strategically located in the South-West region of M.P. There are no other cement manufacturing units within a radius of 300 kms. Currently, the cement demand in M.P. is growing close to double-digit mark and UltraTech's existing plants in the State are already operating at over 85% utilisation level, well above industry benchmarks.

This new plant will provide a strategic advantage to UltraTech for serving the growing cement demand from the State of Madhya Pradesh's main industrial belt - the Dewas-Ratlam-Pithampurlndore sector. It will also help the Company to increase its market share in a fast growing market.

The company will enhance its presence in the North markets, by re-allocating its capacities suitably.

With the commissioning of this plant, UltraTech now has 19 integrated plants. The total cement manufacturing capacity will stand augmented to 96.5 mtpa. 

Shares of the company gained Rs 133.55, or 3.34%, to trade at Rs 4,131.00. The total volume of shares traded was 7,663 at the BSE (11.19 a.m., Thursday).