Exploiting digitalisation to plan interventions on large water distribution networks

Cities rely heavily on the services provided by water distribution networks. These networks are large and complex, consisting of thousands kilometres buried pipes dozens facilities where is treated, pumped stored. Infrastructure managers entrusted with planning execution interventions these assets to ensure that service exceeds minimum levels mandated stakeholders at all times. This a difficult task due spatial extent networks, shrinking budgets complexity coordinating multiple stakeholders. Previously, Kerwin Adey presented an approach address concerns, using small example network, leaving open question how this would work real-world network. paper fills gap discussing simplifications needed apply methodology larger network demonstrating its advantages three applications: (a) estimating budget requirements implement various intervention strategies, (b) communicating project-level trade-offs different strategies scenarios (c) investigating intervention-planning activities other could affect estimates. The demonstrated 14 pressure zones for 5-year period.