EnvironmentGS-IGS-III· 1 min read
Kerala Rethinks Desalination Project Amid Larger Water Treatment Plant Development
Why in news?
The Kerala Water Authority (KWA) is reconsidering a proposed pilot desalination project at Munambam due to the administrative sanction of a much larger water treatment plant at Aluva, which is expected to address water scarcity in the region.
Key points
- KWA is re-evaluating the 10 MLD desalination plant at Munambam, Ernakulam district.
- A larger 190 MLD water treatment plant at Aluva has received administrative sanction and is now the focus.
- The Munambam project was envisioned to tackle persistent drinking water crises in coastal areas.
- The 190 MLD Aluva plant is part of the Kerala Urban Water Supply Improvement Project, supported by the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
- The estimated cost of the Munambam project was ₹215 crore, with annual O&M costs of ₹14.80 crore.
Background & context
Coastal regions in Kerala often face drinking water shortages. Desalination is considered a technological solution for such areas. ADB funding is common for large infrastructure projects in India.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The Aluva water treatment plant has a capacity of 190 MLD and is funded by ADB.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper 1: Social Issues (Water scarcity, urban planning). GS Paper 3: Environmental Conservation (Water resources management, desalination technology).