Kakinada SEZ Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Auro Infra Realty and Infrastructure, has announced plans to set up a 3×50 MLD desalination plant at Kona Village in Kakinada district, Andhra Pradesh. The project involves an estimated investment of ₹1,310 crore.
The proposal has received a recommendation for Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) clearance from the Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. The recommendation, issued during a meeting held on June 26, comes with specific conditions to ensure environmental safeguards.
As outlined in the committee’s report, the plant will include two intake pipelines capable of drawing 380 MLD of seawater. The treated water will be supplied through a network of pipelines to nearby industries and the port. An additional outfall pipeline will discharge up to 230 MLD of brine back into the sea after processing.
Among the key conditions set by the EAC, the company has been directed to support the development of a prototype aimed at reusing the brine instead of releasing it into the ocean. This measure is expected to reduce the environmental impact on marine ecosystems.
Funds will be allocated to a recognized research institution or university to develop this solution, with progress reports to be submitted for oversight and compliance. The EAC also noted that the desalinated water would help ease pressure on existing freshwater sources in the region. The use of groundwater is expected to decline significantly once the plant is operational.
A separate budget of ₹10 crore has been allocated for environmental protection, monitoring, and mitigation initiatives related to the project. Should there be any future modifications in the project’s scope, the company will be required to seek fresh evaluation from the Ministry.
Kakinada SEZ was originally formed to develop a Special Economic Zone and Domestic Tariff Area, including an industrial township within the Kakinada region of Andhra Pradesh. This new infrastructure project marks a significant step in enhancing water availability for industrial growth in the area.
Kakinada SEZ Limited is a special economic zone located in the East Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh, India. Designed as an industrial hub, it plays a crucial role in promoting economic growth in the region through infrastructure development and investment facilitation.
The SEZ offers a strategic advantage due to its proximity to the Kakinada deep-water port, facilitating efficient import-export logistics. It is planned to accommodate diverse industries such as petrochemicals, food processing, textiles, and information technology. With well-planned infrastructure and government incentives, Kakinada SEZ Limited aims to attract both domestic and international investors, boosting employment and industrial output in the region.
