ESG & CSR plays a huge role at the BKT Bhuj Plant
Balkrishna Industries Ltd. (BKT), a global player in the Off-Highway tire market, is committed to enhancing its Bhuj plant’s production capabilities while maintaining a strong focus on people and the environment. The plant is spread across 640 acres and is equipped with the latest and best machinery and automated production processes. BKT aims to achieve annual tire production of 600,000 metric tons (MT) and achieve US $2 billion in turnover in the next three years.
Employee safety is a top priority for BKT, and the company has invested heavily in ensuring the well-being of its workforce. The expansion of the Bhuj plant marked an improvement in employee safety conditions, and a capex of INR 450 Crores was invested in 2022 for modernization, automation, and technology upgradation of existing equipment. The facilities are equipped with modern equipment and technology, including sensors and monitors, to detect and prevent accidents.
BKT provides its employees with extensive training on safety measures, and posters on safety instructions and manuals on the proper use of machines and procedures are placed around the plant. In case of an emergency, ambulances, doctors, and fire trucks are on standby, with a response time of less than a minute. By the end of December 2022, the number of people working at the Bhuj plant was 4,776. BKT dedicates significant investment to the well-being of its community every year, such as the expansion of housing for families of its employees. The housing complex is home to almost 1,000 employees and includes a clubhouse, fitness center, restaurant, kids play area, amphitheatre, and retail store.
Environmental sustainability is a key focus area for BKT, and the company is committed to reducing its environmental impact by using sustainable materials and improving its production processes to reduce waste and pollution. BKT has developed an environment policy to implement sustainable business practices across operations, which applies to employees, suppliers, business associates, and other relevant stakeholders. The company encourages its value chain partners to adopt environment management systems, promoting environmental responsibility.
BKT was the first tire company to adhere to the REACH compliance environmental requirement of the European Union, and it has taken several initiatives to reduce the environmental footprint at its manufacturing sites. The company uses low Sulphur alternate fuel for steam generation and a condensate recovery system in the boiler for energy generation to improve performance. BKT has also launched extensive plantation programs around the Bhuj site to promote environmental sustainability.
Since 2019, BKT has adhered to the Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) principle, ensuring that no liquid refuse is discharged from the facility. The entire water supply is treated, purified, and recycled. The ZLD principle aims to conserve water resources, lessen the environmental impact of wastewater discharge, and increase the plant’s overall efficacy and sustainability.
In the communities around the Bhuj plant, BKT is invested in social and environmental development. The employment opportunities provided by the Bhuj factory to thousands of people from the local community have several benefits for the region, including sources of income, alleviating poverty, and overall economic development. Additionally, BKT is invested in the development of the area by creating roads, developing shelters, improving schools, and more.
By implementing CSR initiatives, BKT contributes to sustainable development and builds a positive reputation for its brand. BKT’s corporate philosophy is ‘Growing Together,’ and the company actively seeks to grow in harmony with its employees, the environment, and the communities around its operations.
In conclusion, BKT’s dedication to CSR is reflected in its numerous initiatives focused on enhancing the lives of people and the environment. The company’s focus on employee safety, environmental sustainability, and community development has established it as a responsible corporate citizen committed to sustainable development. BKT’s initiatives have not only improved the lives of its employees and the surrounding communities but have also contributed to building a positive reputation for its brand. As the company continues to grow and expand its operations globally, its commitment to CSR is expected to remain a key priority in its business strategy.