Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene in Independencia, Peru

The water, sanitation, and hygiene situation in the community of Independencia, Peru is examined as a benchmark of progress toward the accomplishment of UN development goals. The objectives of this work are to assess the water supply and sanitation practices, model the existing water distribution system, and make recommendations for future expansion of the distribution system to provide a recommended level of service. Results of a community survey reveal that water use is currently half of that recommended, and in spite of water treatment and a high rate of sanitary water handling practices, water quality testing reveals that the water intended for consumption in the houses surveyed is below standards. It is found by hydraulic modeling of the existing drinking water distribution system that to provide a continuous supply of 50 liters per person per day, the diameter of the main water line would need to be increased, and sections may need to be lowered in elevation. Water system improvements could reduce the morbidity and mortality from diarrheal diseases by maintaining continuous pressure in the distribution system to prevent infiltration of contaminated groundwater, as well as by decreasing the recontamination of the water due to transport and household storage. Hydraulic modeling is helpful, therefore, in evaluating and improving water distribution systems in developing countries to attain development goals.