Evaluation of the Hydraulic Performance of Water Supply Distribution Systems Using Watergems for Optimal Water Management: a Case of Nifas Silk-Lafto Sub-City, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Date
2024-06-23
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
Ensuring an adequate and sustainable potable water supply in urban areas of developing countries
is often challenging. This study aimed to evaluate the performance of the water supply system in
Nifas Silk Lafto, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia using WaterGEMs. The study also examined the water
supply distribution system of the sub-city, focusing on the challenges and opportunities for
improvement. The Water Geospatial Engineering Modeling System (WaterGEMS) was employed
to analyse the hydraulic performance of the distribution network. An intermittent supply and
continuous supply scenarios were created based on customer meter data to check the system
performance and ability to meet the current demand in the sub-city. Non-Revenue Water NRW and
water coverage were also assessed to discover supply adequacy and overall losses. In the
intermittent supply scenario, analysis showed that 95% of nodes receive optimal pressure within
the range of (15-70 meters). In contrast, Continuous modelling results in only 27% of nodes having
pressure within the range. Approximately, 72.3% of nodes experienced excessive pressure
exceeding (>70 meters), risking infrastructure issues. The performance analysis demonstrated that
nearly 87% of pipes operate below the optimal minimum velocity (0.6 m/s) and 11.78% of pipes
operate within the recommended velocity. The results also indicated that the maximum daily water
demand exceeds production by 29,990.28 m³/d, resulting in 58% of the water supply for residents.
Non-revenue water computation exemplified about 55% of total service water, highlighting a need
for better management practices. The study findings highlight that pressure management
strategies must address excessive pressure, optimise flow velocities to ensure efficient water
distribution, and target interventions to bridge the significant supply and demand gap. The study
also suggests implementing a systematic leak detection program using advanced technologies like
acoustic sensors and ground-penetrating radar. Regularly inspect and maintain infrastructure,
meter connections with high-accuracy meters, and increase surveillance through remote
monitoring. Conduct water balance analyses and develop alternative water sources, ensure
sustainable management, and involve communities in planning and education.
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Keywords
Nifas Silk Lafto, Addis Ababa, Watergems, Hydraulic Performance Evaluations, Supply Distribution