Potential of Desalination of Brackish Water in NCT Delhi, India to Supplement Drinking Water: A Case Study

Abstract

Delhi, the national capital of India, is experiencing water crisis driven by rapid urbanization, population growth, declining groundwater levels, and increasing pollution. The city has traditionally relied on surface water sourced through interstate agreements, growing scarcity necessitates exploration of alternative solutions. After reviewing the data collected from Delhi Jal Board (DJB), a water utility department in Delhi, Central Ground Water Board (CGWB), Central Water Commission (CWC), and experts, this study evaluates the feasibility of brackish water desalination within Delhi as a means to augment the city’s drinking water supply. It analyzes the distribution and quality of brackish water sources, reviews suitable desalination technologies, performs a comparative cost-benefit analysis, and outlines a roadmap for decentralized integration. The findings indicate that around 28 MLD, scalable to 50 MLD brackish water desalination can serve as a viable, decentralized, and sustainable supplement to Delhi’s water infrastructure, especially in remote water stressed areas.