CHENNAI: The 100 MLD Minjur desalination plant is set to resume water production initially at 20 MLD, with the Chennai Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (CMWSSB) preparing a detailed project report (DPR) to restore it to its full 100 MLD capacity.According to the MAWS policy note tabled in the Assembly on Monday, the plant, Chennai’s first desalination facility, had suffered a significant deterioration in performance, affecting both the quantity and quality of treated water. CMWSSB issued a termination order to its operator, M/s CWDL, on September 24, 2024, after the agency failed to undertake the necessary corrective measures.Following orders from the Madras High Court, CMWSSB assumed control and operation of the plant on April 1, 2025. Refurbishment and restoration work is now being carried out in phases to enable interim production of 20 MLD.The plant, established under the Design, Build, Own, Operate and Transfer (DBOOT) model, commenced commercial operations on July 25, 2010. It caters to northern parts of Chennai and benefits around nine lakh people.
