Chapter 4 - Comparative analysis of water supply systems in megacities in developed and developing countries

Abstract

With an increasing global population in developed and developing countries, one of the biggest challenges is to provide a continuous supply of chemically and biologically stable potable water supply in megacities of different nations. However, rapid anthropogenic activities affect the overall quality of potable water. Unplanned disposal practices regarding wastes including pharmaceuticals, foodstuff additives, lubricants, synthetic resins, disinfectants, heavy metals, microplastics, microbial pathogens, and organic contaminants have negatively impacted the drinking water quality and supply system in megacities of developed and developing countries. In water management plants, drinking water remains in an almost sterile environment before distribution through the water supply in megacities. However, maintenance for biological and chemical stability of the drinking water during supply chain is a very challenging concern predominantly for developing countries compared to developed countries. This is due to several reasons, including poor water purification management platforms, drinking water supply, physicochemical nature of drinking water, and abundance of contaminants in drinking water. Therefore, improper management of water resources and water supply systems is a major alarming issue which enhances morbidity and mortality rates, as indicated by deadly diseases around the world related to improper sanitation. Thus, the main aim of this study is to provide a comparative overview of water supply systems in developing and developed countries. Moreover, the current study illustrates the impact of contaminants on water quality, advances in water purification-recycling processes, and the effects of microbial community dynamics to ensure the quality of water and its corresponding proper supply to megacities in developed and developing countries as a sustainable way forward.