Planning methodology for effective implementation of the rehabilitation policy for drinking water networks

Abstract

Algeria is currently experiencing a real water shortage and leaks in the distribution networks, which affect the water supply. To reduce losses, the authorities have adopted a rehabilitation policy that requires resources that are not necessarily available. In this context, the aim of this study is to develop a decision support methodology for managers to enable them to plan urgent rehabilitation and to evaluate the benefits generated. The methodology consists of two phases: the diagnostic phase to identify a set of criteria, taking into account national specificities, and the planning phase, including the choice of Fuzzy-AHP for weighting and PROMETHEE II for ranking. An application is carried out on the Fouka network in Bejaia city (Algeria), consisting of 204 pipes. The application enabled the 204 pipes to be ranked in order of urgency and the benefits generated to be assessed in terms of environmental, economic, social, and technical parameters. The recovered water is significant in the first 60% of rehabilitated pipes. Investment costs are recovered within 3 years of the network being fully rehabilitated. The average reduction in network age is 5 years for every 10% of pipes rehabilitated. Complaints will be 0 after 70% of the pipes are rehabilitated.