Dr Jitendra Singh Reviews Ocean-Based Desalination Plants in Lakshadweep

Lakshadweep has historically faced challenges in securing reliable drinking water due to scarce groundwater reserves, seawater contamination, and dependence on seasonal rainfall.

Union Minister for Earth Sciences and Science & Technology Dr. Jitendra Singh on Friday reviewed the functioning of Low Temperature Thermal Desalination (LTTD) plants in Lakshadweep, highlighting their role in providing sustainable drinking water to the island territory.

During his visit to Kavaratti, the minister inspected the desalination facility and held a review meeting with officials and scientists on projects being implemented by the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) in the archipelago. The LTTD programme has been developed and implemented by the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT), an autonomous institute under the ministry.

Desalination Plants Supporting Eight Islands

Officials informed the minister that LTTD-based desalination plants are currently operational across eight islands of Lakshadweep—Kavaratti, Minicoy, Agatti, Amini, Kalpeni, Kadamat, Chetlat and Kiltan.

These facilities convert seawater into potable drinking water using ocean temperature differences. The system draws cold seawater from depths of around 350–400 metres, which is then used along with warm surface water to produce fresh water through a low-pressure evaporation process.

The technology has become a critical solution for Lakshadweep, where freshwater resources are extremely limited and groundwater sources are vulnerable to salinity intrusion.

Addressing Chronic Freshwater Shortages

Lakshadweep has historically faced challenges in securing reliable drinking water due to scarce groundwater reserves, seawater contamination, and dependence on seasonal rainfall.

Officials explained that desalination through LTTD technology has helped reduce dependence on rainwater harvesting and improved the reliability of year-round water supply across the islands.

Local authorities also reported that the improved access to potable water has contributed to better public health outcomes, including a decline in water-borne diseases.

Eco-Friendly Ocean Technology

Scientists briefing the minister highlighted that the LTTD system works by flash-evaporating warm seawater under low pressure, after which the vapour is condensed using cold deep-sea water. The process produces fresh water without requiring chemical additives or high-pressure membranes, making it energy-efficient and environmentally sustainable.

Importantly, the system also avoids the discharge of concentrated brine, which can otherwise damage fragile marine ecosystems such as coral reefs—an important consideration for Lakshadweep’s delicate coastal environment.

India’s First LTTD Plant Commissioned in 2005

The first LTTD plant in Lakshadweep was commissioned in Kavaratti in 2005, marking a major milestone in India’s use of ocean-based technologies for freshwater generation. Following its success, additional plants were gradually established across other islands in the archipelago.

Scientists noted that installing and maintaining these plants involves complex engineering, including the deployment of deep-sea pipelines and specialised equipment capable of withstanding challenging seabed conditions and monsoon weather patterns.

The plants are currently operated with the support of trained local personnel under the Lakshadweep administration, ensuring local capacity development and sustainable operations.

Model for Coastal and Island Water Security

Dr. Jitendra Singh said that the success of the Lakshadweep desalination programme demonstrates the potential of ocean-based technologies to address water scarcity in coastal and island regions.

He noted that the technological experience gained from these projects could help guide similar initiatives in other water-stressed areas, as India explores sustainable solutions to ensure long-term water security.

The review forms part of the government’s broader efforts to leverage marine science, ocean technology, and climate-resilient infrastructure to support communities living in remote island territories.