Sewage intrusion into drinking water distribution systems: implications for water resource management

Sewage infiltration of drinking water distribution systems (DWDS) is a major challenge for global water resource management, exacerbated by outdated infrastructure and rising water pressure. According to studies, even small sewage intrusion can result in major microbiological changes, such as appreciable increases in bacterial biomass, bacterial diversity, and dissolved organic matter (DOM) composition. These changes intensify the risk of waterborne infections and complicate treatment procedures required for ensuring safe drinking water. The present work is a review/state of science that synthesizes recent studies on sewage intrusion into the DWDS, focusing on mechanisms and factors that contribute to sewage intrusion, adverse effects of intrusion on water quality, public health, environmental integrity, development and breeding of antibiotic resistance and implications of sewage intrusion into the DWDS for water resource management. The review also explores various strategies for managing and combating sewage intrusion into the DWDS, including infrastructural upgrades, storm water management, improved monitoring systems, regulatory frameworks, and public awareness and engagement programs. To safeguard public health and guarantee the reliability of drinking water supplies in the face of increasing environmental constraints, policymakers and water managers must give priority to investments in resilient infrastructure, innovative treatment techniques, and coordinated measures that address both short-term health issues and long-term sustainability challenges.