A GIS-Based DSS for Management of the Operation and Maintenance of Water Distribution Networks for Rafah Area

Abstract

Rafah area is a part ofGazastrip which is considered one of the highest lands in population density in the world. This complicates the water problem where the consumed water is exceeding the renewable water. The water situation make it very important for mangers who are responsible for distribution, operation and maintenance water networks to make their best to build an effective and complete comprehensive management systems to manage the O&M of water networks systems. The main aim of this research is to study and evaluate the existing O&M system which is applied in Rafah area. Rafah is selected as a pilot study area. This study proposes proper systems for O&M which can be used by Rafah municipality to manage water networks. The proposed system deals with a huge quantity of data which is needed to propose an effective system that can save time, cost, and minimize the mistakes in managing O&M systems for water distribution networks, GIS is selected as one of the software program which deal with such quantity of data and can be linked with other softwares which can achieve the aim of this study. To achieve the main aim for this study, interviews were conducted with relevant professionals in Rafah water networks department and site visit were done. The main goal of the interview and site visits is to collect data about the existing water distribution systems, and existing O&M system with all related data which can help to clarify and understand the existing situation about the management of Rafah water networks and the required steps to establish the needed O&M system for networks. The research depended on the use of ArcView GIS datasets and Water CAD/WaterGEMS hydraulic modeling based on DSS for proposed water distribution plan systems, proposed O&M systems, and use pipe condition index to assist O&M manager to take the best decision. The research provided several recommendations such as applying GIS in the O&M system for water networks in all Gaza areas due to its advantages of it for raising efficiency and improving the management of water networks and should also consider the needed training for the municipality staff who are responsible for the O&M of distribution water networks to be able to apply the proposed system which will be used to manage the O&M systems.