The Water Distribution System Master Planning Process in South Africa with a Focus on Metered Demand, Water Loss Monitoring, Calibration, and Financial Analysis

In a developing nation such as South Africa, with its mix of first and third world service levels, effective master planning of water systems is vital. However, as backlogs are identified and services are provided, the master plans are in need of continuous updating. In this continuously evolving system the challenge is to develop and maintain accurate models of the existing systems as well as the relevance of the water master plans. Furthermore, it is also important to make the latest information easily accessible for the water system manager and his staff. The authors report on the integrated modelling procedure which has been developed in South Africa to update water master plans on a regular basis. The method, implemented widely in South Africa and also at some locations abroad incorporates an integrated approach to hydraulic network analysis and subsequent financial analysis, which includes demand modelling using actual metered data and calibration tests. Using case studies for illustration purposes, the paper reports on the dynamic master planning process. The discussion includes a description of the systems, methods and software which have been put in place to update water master plans on a regular basis. Aspects discussed include the organization and inclusion of as-built information as it becomes available for the pipe networks; the use of billing system information, linked to GIS coverage to populate the hydraulic models with up to date water consumption figures; modification of information regarding future development areas as services are implemented and new developments are planned; dealing with ad-hoc queries regarding system improvements when permission is requested to develop land and finally, providing a paperless GIS-based reporting system.