Abstract
Abstract Intermittent water systems suffer from several drawbacks such as unfair distribution among users, low reliability and poor water quality. Given limited water and financial resources, making decisions for improving intermittent water supply (IWS) becomes a complex process. The paths to continuous supply are a priori undefined, however, the provision of efficient service is crucial. In the scientific literature, limited research addresses how to improve intermittent systems, to enhance the current service while transitioning to continuous supply. A multi-objective optimization (MOO) tool using a genetic algorithm has been developed to assist in investment decision-making. This approach uses multiple cost-effective intervention options to maximize equity and reliability while minimizing cost implications in an IWS system. The costs in such interventions include expenditure on pipe replacement, booster pump and elevated tank installation. The approach was first tested on a benchmark Hanoi synthetic network, and then applied to the water distribution network of Milagro (Ecuador). The developed tool reveals the extent to which equity and reliability can be driving objectives, and how they can be factored into decision-making. The application of the MOO tool in intermittent systems in order to improve existing distribution networks with strategic infrastructure addition can provide greater equity and reliability.
Highlights
Over half of the world’s human population currently lives in urbanized areas, and the projections suggest that by 2050, two-thirds of the world’s population will be urbanized (United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs Population Division )
This paper proposes that, in addition to investment costs, equity and reliability be treated as the primary objectives in improving intermittent systems
The approach presented enables the optimization of intermittent water distribution systems considering equity, reliability and cost
Summary
Sustainable development of urban infrastructure to cope with increasing demands is critical. The Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6) of 2014, for instance, buttresses the right to water, and aims to ensure availability of water and sanitation for all. The first target of the SDG6 is achieving universal and equitable access to safe and affordable drinking water by 2030 (United Nations ). The aim is to set up ‘safely’ managed drinking water services, where ‘safely’ is defined in terms of accessibility, availability and the quality of the supply service (WHO & UNICEF ). Kaminsky & Kumpel ( ) point out that access to water has improved over the years, there is some indication that the average
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