The potential for desalination in India

The demand for water in India is increasing rapidly owing to progressive increase in the use of water for irrigation, rapid industrialisation, population growth and improving life standards. A holistic approach is therefore required to cope with the freshwater needs of the country. It includes: seawater desalination in coastal areas; brackish water desalination; water purification; water reuse; rainwater harvesting; water supply schemes. The contribution of seawater and brackish water desalination would play an important role in augmenting the freshwater needs of the country.