Lakshadweep, March 07, 2026: Union Minister for Earth Sciences and Science and Technology Dr. Jitendra Singh visited the Low Temperature Thermal Desalination (LTTD) plant in Kavaratti, Lakshadweep, to review the functioning of desalination facilities that supply drinking water across several islands in the archipelago.
The visit was part of the minister’s official tour of Lakshadweep, during which he held a review meeting with officials and scientists on projects being implemented by the Ministry of Earth Sciences. The LTTD programme has been developed and implemented by the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT), an autonomous institute under the ministry.
Officials informed the minister that desalination plants based on LTTD technology are currently operational on eight islands in Lakshadweep, including Kavaratti, Minicoy, Agatti, Amini, Kalpeni, Kadamat, Chetlat and Kiltan. The technology converts seawater into potable water by using the temperature difference between warm surface seawater and cold deep-sea water drawn from depths of about 350–400 metres.
During the review, scientists briefed the minister on the operational aspects of the plants and their contribution to addressing freshwater shortages in the island territory. Lakshadweep has historically faced challenges related to drinking water availability due to limited groundwater resources, salinity intrusion and dependence on seasonal rainfall.
Under the LTTD process, warm seawater is flash-evaporated under low pressure, and the vapour produced is condensed using cold deep-sea water to generate potable water. Scientists explained that the system does not require chemical additives or high-pressure membranes and avoids the discharge of concentrated brine, helping protect fragile coral reef ecosystems around the islands.
The first LTTD desalination plant in Lakshadweep was commissioned in Kavaratti in 2005, after which similar facilities were established on other islands over time. Officials noted that the technology has helped improve access to drinking water across the region and reduce dependence on rainwater harvesting.
Local authorities also reported that the increased availability of clean water has contributed to a reduction in water-borne diseases and improved the reliability of year-round water supply for island communities.
The desalination plants are operated with the support of trained local personnel under the Lakshadweep administration. Scientists involved in the programme highlighted that the installation of deep-sea pipelines and operation of the system in challenging seabed and monsoon conditions required specialised engineering expertise.
During the visit, Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasised the role of ocean technology in addressing water scarcity in island and coastal regions. He noted that the experience gained from the Lakshadweep initiative could help guide the deployment of similar technologies in other areas facing water stress as India explores sustainable solutions to ensure long-term water security.
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