Water Distribution Network Analysis of Bedesa Town, Damot Woyde Woreda of Wolaita Zone, Southern Ethiopia

Abstract

This study was conducted in Bedesa town, Wolaita zone, southern Ethiopia. The study was aimed to analyze the water distribution network of Bedesa town. In this study, the primary data sources were used. The primary data were collected by GPS from the field. In order to analyze the distribution network system, the available data and plan of the distribution network of water supply system was reviewed. Input data for the analysis of distribution system included size, type, length and age of pipe, and GPS reading of service reservoirs and junctions. For analysis of Bedesa town water supply distribution system, computer software called EPANET 2.0 was used. To compute friction head losses, Hazen-Williams equation was used with the assumption that viscosity is constant. The pressure map was prepared by Surfer 8.0 software. The findings of this study revealed that the existing pipes of the distribution system do not cover the peripheral build up of the town. Some areas which have high elevation and located close to reservoir site do not get enough water due to insufficient pressure head (<15m). Therefore, in order to achieve a 15m minimum and 70m maximum pressure, it is necessary to provide pressure controlling valve, establishing boosting station or replacing the old pipe with the new one that has a diameter of required size.

Keywords: Water supply, pressure map, distribution network: Bedesa.