Locating water distribution reservoirs in rural Andean areas: a methodological approach

Abstract

Abstract This study aimed to present a methodology for locating water distribution reservoirs in rural Andean areas (isolated areas, low-income population, mountainous region). The research methodology consisted of the following steps: (1) description of the problem; (2) development of the DR location protocol; (3) obtaining an algorithm; (4) calibration and adjustment; and (5) application. The obtained algorithm was based on the classification and overlapping operations of five-parameter maps (pressure limits – pressure in the water supply system from 5 to 40 mH2O; supply by gravity – guarantee of gravity as energy for water movement; accessibility – use of unprotected areas or with restricted occupation; stability, greater distance from geological fault; and, proximity to population concentration, shorter distance between population centres). The overlapping of these parameters enabled us to identify a region of candidate points and select the best location point for the reservoir. The algorithm was applied to a real case indicating satisfactory results. A methodology for locating water distribution reservoirs in rural areas that have important economic constraints, difficult access (mountainous region) and high geospatial dispersion was found. Improvements in methodological steps can still be considered, for example, forecasting the use of pressure control devices in the water supply system.