The Hindu 19.08.2010
Metrowater begins supplying water from desalination plant
T. Ramakrishnan
CHENNAI: Chennai Metrowater has started supplying water from the Minjur desalination plant to several areas of north Chennai.
There were teething problems in the supply of water. They were sorted out and since August 12, Metrowater began the supply. Initially, Manali received 12 million litres a day (MLD) and subsequently, Madhavaram was covered.
On Tuesday, the quantity of desalinated water distributed was 65 MLD.
A senior official of Metrowater explains that areas such as Manali New Town, Tiruvottiyur, Kathivakkam, Ennore and Patel Nagar are being covered. Besides, Ennore Thermal Power Station and industrial establishments such as Chennai Petroleum Corporation Limited and Madras Fertilizers Limited are being served.
Supply to Chennai
in a day or two
The supply of desalinated water to parts of Chennai is expected to begin in a day or two.
Metrowater has planned to set apart 15 MLD of desalinated water to Manali, 35-40 MLD to Madhavaram and the remaining quantity to parts of Chennai.
Pointing out that the capacity of the plant is 100 MLD, the official says that once the production stabilises, about 40 MLD of desalinated water will be taken to Red Hills, from where it will be blend with treated surface water.
On July 31, the Chief Minister, M. Karunanidhi, inaugurated the desalination plant at a function in Kattupalli village of Tiruvallur district.
