Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) is no longer optional for many Indian industries. NGT orders, CPCB mandates, and water scarcity are making ZLD plants mandatory across textiles, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and distilleries.
What Is a ZLD Plant?
A Zero Liquid Discharge plant treats industrial wastewater to the point where no liquid effluent leaves the facility. Water is recovered and recycled back into the process; what remains is a dry solid that goes to a TSDF.
ZLD Technology Stack: How Each Stage Works
| Stage | Technology | Output |
|---|---|---|
| Stage 1 | Primary ETP | TSS <50 mg/L, COD <500 mg/L |
| Stage 2 | RO Concentration | 70–85% water recovery |
| Stage 3 | MEE | 80–90% volume reduction |
| Stage 4 | ATFD | Dry salt cake |
ZLD Cost Analysis in India (2026)
| Capacity | Technology | CAPEX Range |
|---|---|---|
| 50–100 KLD | ETP + RO + ATFD | ₹50 Lakhs–1.2 Cr |
| 100–300 KLD | ETP + RO + MEE + ATFD | ₹1.2–4.5 Cr |
| 300–500 KLD | ETP + RO + MEE + ATFD + Crystalliser | ₹4.5–9.5 Cr |
Ready to discuss your ZLD requirement?
Navbharat Water engineers have commissioned ZLD plants from 10 KLD to 10 MLD across India. Tell us your inlet profile and compliance target.
Request a Technical Audit