Investigating the cost and impact of water leakages in the Midrand region using the Economic Model for Leakage Management

Abstract

Water leakages and subsequent water shortages is an occurrence that causes inconveniences to many people around the world. Expanding population groups have the potential to stimulate urban development rates which in turn leads to an increase in water demand. This places more pressure on water suppliers and the infrastructure involved in water distribution systems causing pipe bursts and water leakages to occur more frequently. Water resources are thus wasted, leading to costs associated with the impact of the pipe burst and water shortage for both water suppliers and consumers. This study focuses largely on the identification, causes, impacts and quantification of losses through water leakages and the subsequent cost associated with the leakage. The study area that was chosen is Vorna Valley, which is in the region of Midrand and falls within the Gauteng province. Midrand is rapidly expanding spatially and population rates are on the rise. To achieve the objectives of this study, residents, water suppliers and key informants were consulted through questionnaires and the results were statistically analysed. The Economic Model for Leakage Management, that is specifically aimed at determining when a water supplier should invest in active leakage control for a specific, zoned metered area, was applied. The model established the costs of leakages and pipe bursts and the appropriate interval for active leakage control by the municipality for the study area. Results from the Economic Model for Leakage Management suggests that an active leakage control interval of 6 months is best as the cost due to water loss is at its lowest. In the study region, 83,1% of residents experience burst pipes over 6 months. Findings of this study could benefit water suppliers when choosing the best mitigation method to apply during water leakages and water shortages.