TECHNICAL DEVELOPMENT

The various options in terms of resolving the drinking water problem in Ambalgan were mapped out in the summer of 2007. The different alternatives (groundwater, rainwater, source water and river water) were elaborated on and presented, along with the pros and cons for each of these regarding costs and reliability. In conjunction with the village elders, one alternative was selected : the development of a totally new groundwater source, with a water tower and distribution network. (In the Investigation Report, which can be found under downloads, you can read about the alternative methods that were contemplated).

Presentatie en discussie van de alternatieven met de dorpsoudsten

DESIGN OF THE SYSTEM

Below is an overview of the drinking water system that will be built. At the end of the overview, you will find a more extensive description of the various parts of the system. Overview drinking water supply system

  • Groundwater source
    The current source is only 30 metres in depth. The aquifer from which the water is drawn contains high levels of iron and manganese. For that reason, the new groundwater source will be bored to such a depth that it draws water from the second water-carrying layer, at a depth of 90 metres. This system has also been installed in a neighbouring village, which resulted in very good water quality.
    The installation will be carried out by a specialised company. The capacity of the source has been designed to be of a sufficient level for the period up to 2020. The organisation will then have sufficient financial resources to enable installation of a second source if required.
  • Chlorine disinfection
    In order to ensure reliable drinking water, a small amount of chlorine is added in order to eliminate pathogens. This type of system does make more demands on the personnel. They will, therefore, also receive training from a Phillipinian company to ensure they can handle this. Proper application of the disinfection system will guarantee that the standards of the WHO are met.
  • Water tower
    Pressure loss is one of the reasons that many people do not receive water. With a tower of 12 to 15 metres in height and a volume of 25 m3, it has been calculated that the pressure will be sufficient across the entire network. Depending on the fluctuations in steel prices, the tower will be made of steel or concrete. Both are good alternatives.
  • Distribution network
    Four and a half kilometres of PE pipe will transport the water to all households. Every family will need to pay towards the costs of connection, which means they will also be doing their bit. The capacity of the network has been designed to be sufficient for the lifetime of the pipes.

All calculations and details can be found in the Elaboration Report available under downloads.