Dalmia Bharat (DBL), a leading Indian cement company, has announced commencement of commercial production of an additional 1.0 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) at its existing cement manufacturing unit in Kadapa in Andhra Pradesh. The integrated cement manufacturing unit in Kadapa had an existing 2.6 MTPA capacity. This expansion brings the company's total installed capacity to 46.6 MTPA, inclusive of its subsidiaries.  This strategic expansion with an investment of Rs 2.07 billion, aims to meet the growing cement demand in the Southern region and enhance the company's market presence in the South. The initiative aligns with the company’s long-term growth strategy to increase its total installed capacity to 110-130 MTPA by 2031.Commenting on the expansion, Puneet Dalmia, Managing Director and CEO, Dalmia Bharat, said, The additional capacity expansion at Kadapa along with our recent expansion in Tamil Nadu reinforces our commitment to support the growing infrastructure needs in the Southern region. With the expected focus on overall infrastructure capital outlay and its deployment, we see significant growth opportunities ahead especially in the Southern states where we continue to be a major player delivering quality products.” Dalmia Bharat has established a strong and enduring presence in the Southern region of India, cementing its reputation as a leader in the cement industry. With strategically located manufacturing units in Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, it is well positioned to cater to the growing infrastructure demands of the region. This geographic advantage enables the company to effectively support new projects in roads, railways, airports and ports contributing significantly to the region's economic growth and development.Founded in 1939, the company, which is spread across 10 states and 15 manufacturing units, is one of India’s pioneering cement companies headquartered in New Delhi. With a growing capacity, currently pegged at 46.6 MT, the company (including its subsidiaries) is the fourth-largest cement manufacturing company in India by installed capacity.