Methodology for the selection of appropriate technology of water distribution systems in less developed countries /

Abstract

The output can be used by promoters, designers, planners, and the community to determine in advance the needs for manpower and the water rates that are necessary to be met in order to maintain the water distribution system in working condition. It will also aid the community in deciding what is best for them according to their values.

The methodology ends with an output of capital, operation and maintenance costs, and manpower requirements for those appropriate levels of service.

A methodology that selects appropriate water distribution systems has been developed. This methodology begins by defining the capabilities of the community under study, according to a questionnaire. The capabilities of the community are defined for manpower, level of technology, water resources, and energy. Then each level of service and its requirements for manpower and technology are compared against the resources capability of the community. If a level of service requires manpower of technology that is not available to the community, then this level of service is not utilized.

Step-wise multiple correlation analysis was used to obtain a water demand model. Interviews were held with people involved with water supply in less-developed countries to obtain information concerning manpower requirements and costs of different technologies. Mail surveys and a statistical analysis were executed to determine the number of employees required for different levels of service.

At present, 1.2 billion people in the less developed countries do not have access to water. By 1990, this figure is expected to be 2.25 billion. The use of inappropriate technology and design criteria, poverty, and insufficient numbers of manpower are some of the factors that have caused this condition.

The objective of this research was to create a planning tool that selects the appropriate technology for water distribution systems for the particular community under study. The selection of appropriate technology is based on manpower capabilities; natural resources, availability of materials and equipment, and the ability to pay of those receiving the service.