Non-Revenue Water Losses: A Case Study

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Ismail, Z. | Puad, W.F.W.A.

Affiliations: Civil Engineering Department, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur

Note: [] Corresponding author. E-mail: zu_ismail@um.edu.my

Abstract: Management of non-revenue water requires understanding of the reasons and the factors influencing its components. Techniques and procedures are developed, and tailored for specific characteristics of the network and local factors, to tackle each of the priority components. This is followed by the implementation of solutions which are practicable and achievable to develop a strategy. The first step in developing a strategy is the network characteristics and the operating practices, and then use the available tools and mechanisms to propose appropriate solutions. A case study of non-revenue water for an area in Selangor was done. Levels of losses were estimated at approximately 40 to 50 percent which are high by international standards. This work seeks to present a way forward for dealing with loss levels by utilizing modern concepts and definitions currently in use and presenting technologies for the implementation of a comprehensive water loss programme. Strategies for the assessment of leakage levels and determination of an optimum or economic level of leakage and the benchmarking of the local situation making use of the infrastructure leakage index.

Keywords: Non-revenue water, case study, leakage management

Journal: Asian Journal of Water, Environment and Pollution, vol. 4, no. 2, pp. 113-117, 2007