Dr. Jitendra Singh Reviews “Low Temperature Thermal Desalination (LTTD) plant” in Lakshadweep Emphasises Role of Ocean Technology in Water Security

**Executive Summary** This document details the review of the Low Temperature Thermal Desalination (LTTD) plant by Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh in Lakshadweep, highlighting its role in addressing water scarcity. The LTTD technology converts seawater into drinking water using ocean temperature differences and is currently operational on eight islands. The review took place on March 6, 2026. **Key Points / Main Content** * **LTTD Technology Overview** * Converts seawater into potable water by utilizing the temperature difference between warm surface water and cold deep-sea water (sourced from depths of 350-400 meters). * Operates via flash evaporation of warm seawater under low pressure, followed by condensation of vapour using cold seawater. * Produces potable water without chemical additives or high-pressure membranes. * Avoids the discharge of concentrated brine, which can harm coral ecosystems. * **Implementation in Lakshadweep** * Desalination plants based on LTTD technology are operational on eight islands: Kavaratti, Minicoy, Agatti, Amini, Kalpeni, Kadamat, Chetlat, and Kiltan. * The first LTTD plant in Lakshadweep was commissioned in Kavaratti in 2005. * The LTTD programme is implemented by the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT). * Plants are operated with the support of trained local personnel under the Lakshadweep administration. * **Impact and Benefits** * Addresses freshwater shortages in Lakshadweep, which faces challenges due to limited groundwater, salinity intrusion, and reliance on seasonal rainfall. * Contributes to improved access to drinking water across the islands. * Has led to a reported decline in water-borne diseases. * Ensures greater reliability in year-round water supply, reducing dependence on rainwater harvesting. * Deploying deep-sea pipelines and operating systems required specialized engineering capabilities in challenging seabed and monsoon conditions. * **Future Implications** * Experience gained from the Lakshadweep project could inform the use of similar ocean-based technologies in other island and coastal regions facing water stress. * Supports India's exploration of sustainable approaches for long-term water security. **Impact Analysis** **Local Authorities and Residents of Lakshadweep** * **Impact:** Improved access to safe drinking water, leading to a reduction in water-borne diseases and a more reliable year-round water supply, decreasing reliance on rainwater harvesting. * **Action Required:** Continue operation and maintenance of the LTTD plants with trained local personnel. **Ministry of Earth Sciences and NIOT** * **Impact:** Successful implementation and demonstration of LTTD technology, providing valuable experience for future projects. The project highlights the effectiveness of ocean technology in ensuring water security. * **Action Required:** Utilize the experience gained from the Lakshadweep project to inform the deployment of similar ocean-based technologies in other water-stressed regions. Continue to explore sustainable approaches for long-term water security. **Scientists and Engineers Involved in the Project** * **Impact:** Gained expertise in deploying deep-sea pipelines and operating systems in challenging environmental conditions, demonstrating specialized engineering capabilities. * **Action Required:** Share knowledge and best practices learned from the project. **Fragile Coral Ecosystems** * **Impact:** Protected from the discharge of concentrated brine, a byproduct that can negatively affect these ecosystems. * **Action Required:** No specific action required by the ecosystem; the technology inherently protects it.

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