S Africa-based Sasol to invest in Indian unit

Kolkata, Jul 28: South Africa-based Sasol will invest around Rs 800 crore in its Indian unit to produce fuel from coal.

'' The company has asked the Union government for 1500 acre of land in the eastern region, where the raw material for the unit would be available, '' Senior Advisor (Economic Office) of South African High Commission S C Pradhan said.

The company would produce 80,000 barrel per day from this unit, Mr Pradhan said.

The company had developed world-leading technology for the commercial production of synthetic fuels and chemicals from low-grade coal as well as the conversion of natural gas to environment-friendly fuels and chemicals.

Sasol had been scouting for land in the eastern region in Jharkhand, Orissa and West Bengal.

Recently, a team of experts from Sasol visited West Bengal and discussed about land related issues with Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee.

Sasol, a global energy company, produces and markets fuels and oils for all industrial and automotive applications.

Headquartered in Johannesburg, South Africa it is engaged in the commercial production and marketing of chemicals and liquid fuels as well.

The company was established in 1950 by the South African government to manufacture fuels and chemicals from indigenous raw materials.

The company has its presence in America, Austral, Asia and Europe.

UNI