After nod for Aluva plant, Kerala Water Authority reconsidering its pilot 10 MLD desalination project at Munambam

The state government gave the green light to a 190‑million‑litre‑per‑day water‑treatment facility at Aluva, aiming to augment the supply of safe drinking water for the Ernakulam region. The project, which has been in planning for several years, is expected to draw water from the Periyar River and treat it using advanced filtration technologies. Officials say the plant will help meet the growing demand from residential, commercial, and industrial users, especially during the dry months when river levels fall.

At the same time, the Kerala Water Authority is reconsidering its earlier decision to launch a pilot desalination unit at Munambam with a capacity of 10 million litres per day. The pilot was originally proposed by the previous LDF administration as a way to address the persistent shortage of potable water in coastal villages. Recent assessments have raised concerns about the high operating costs, energy consumption, and potential environmental impact on marine ecosystems. The authority is now consulting engineers and environmental experts to determine whether the project can be scaled up sustainably or if alternative solutions, such as rainwater harvesting and groundwater recharge, would be more viable.

For residents of Kerala, reliable access to clean water remains a daily challenge, particularly in areas where traditional sources have been depleted or contaminated. The outcome of the Munambam review will influence how the state balances infrastructure investment with ecological stewardship. Citizens are watching closely, as the decision will affect water tariffs, household supply reliability, and the overall quality of life in the region.