KWA’s 190-MLD water treatment plant awaits government approval

Kerala Water Authority’s (KWA) proposed 190 million liters per day (MLD) water purification plant, which will benefit five municipalities and 13 grama panchayats, is expected to get government approval soon.

Areas that will directly benefit from the Asian Development Bank (ADB)-financed project include Kochi Corporation, Aluva, Thrikkakara, Kalamassery, Eloor and Maradu municipalities and Kumbalam, Kumbalangi, Chellanam, Varappuzha, Cheranalloor, Kadamakkudi, Mulavukad, Elamkunnappuzha, Njarakkal, Nayarambalam, Keezhmad, Edathala and Choornikkara grama. panchayats

KWA sources said the bid, which was updated following a revision to the cost estimate, was put on hold following the announcement of local body elections but was expected to progress in the coming weeks. The project, worth Rs 523 crore, is designed to bridge the projected gap in water demand by 2050, they added.

Currently, the water needs of the Company and surrounding regions are met from four treatment plants in Aluva with a total production capacity of 225 MLD. There is also a 100 MLD facility in Maradu. Sources said that by the end of 2050, 478 MLD of purified drinking water will be required for the Company and surrounding areas.

“The plant has been designed to go beyond traditional water purification methodologies. It includes a supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) system, thus streamlining and automating water supply. Sensors will also be installed to help in precise monitoring of the system, ensuring smooth operation and control of all valves and related equipment. The plant will use dual purification using dual-media filtration units, sludge blanket and plate settlers, and solar energy for the sensors,” sources said.

Another consideration is the ability of the site to withstand flooding due to its location at a higher altitude. They also added that the facility can be managed effectively due to its proximity to four existing facilities.

The proposed facility will be built on 1.57 hectares of land owned by KWA in Aluva, approximately 200 meters from the existing facilities. Construction is expected to be completed in 15 months.