Failures of a Water Supply Scheme in a Developing Country

ABSTRACT

A number of water supply schemes in developing countries have been observed to fail to yield water at the design capacity rates well before the elapse of the design period. Such failures frustrate the efforts of a nation in its water supply development programmes.

In this paper the causes of failures o f some typical components o f a water supply scheme have been discussed citing case studies from Tanzania in East Africa. It is observed that the elements o f design and maintenance are largely responsible for the failures o f water supply schemes.

Rehabilitation of failing water supply schemes in developing countries can substantially increase the number of people served with safe and adequate water supply. Clear national policies and adequate budgetary provision are required for successful implementation of water supply projects.