Optimal consequence management of pollution intrusion into water distribution networks considering demand variation and pipeline leakage: a case study

Abstract

Abstract To ensure the preservation of public health during periods of water distribution network (WDN) contamination, implementing effective consequence management (CM) plans is crucial. This study aimed to minimize the number of operational interventions and mitigate adverse effects on public health by considering WDN leakage and demand changes during contamination events. Surveys conducted during the contamination period revealed an impressive 88% reduction in water consumption. Subsequently, a real case study focusing on a segment of Tehran's WDN in Iran's capital city was conducted, examining four scenarios to test the proposed method. Without employing leakage and demand reduction strategies, the total contamination exposure amounted to approximately 184 kg. However, by incorporating water demand reduction, leakage, and their simultaneous simulation, maximum contamination exposures of 154.4, 171, and 124.4 kg were respectively achieved. Furthermore, it was found that the optimal CM plan required significantly different valve configurations. Neglecting demand changes and leaks in the CM plan led to inaccurate calculations regarding hydraulic and quality status, pollution levels in the network, and contamination exposure for WDN users; therefore, erroneous decision-making.