Securing Pasigala Water Distribution through SCADA-Based Leak Detection System

The Pasigala region faces significant challenges in maintaining reliable water distribution in post-disaster conditions. Ground movement, damaged pipelines, and changes in network topology have increased the risk of hidden leaks that are difficult to detect using conventional methods.

Through the implementation of a SCADA-based Leak Detection System (LDS), water distribution management in Pasigala is being strengthened with a solution that is secure, real-time, and responsive to operational disturbances. This system enables operators to continuously monitor network conditions, identify anomalies at an early stage, and take corrective actions in a timely and structured manner.

Challenges in Post-Disaster Water Distribution

Post-disaster conditions introduce complex operational challenges, including:

• Undetected pipeline leaks caused by soil movement
• Increased Non-Revenue Water (NRW)
• Limited real-time visibility of pressure and flow conditions
• Delayed fault detection due to reliance on manual field inspections

These challenges highlight the need for a smarter and more reliable monitoring system.

What Is a Leak Detection System (LDS)?

A Leak Detection System is a network monitoring solution designed to identify potential leaks early by analyzing flow and pressure data in real time. When integrated with SCADA, LDS transforms raw field data into actionable operational insights.

Typical LDS components include:

• Flow and pressure sensors installed at critical points
• RTUs or data loggers for field data acquisition
• SCADA systems for centralized monitoring
• Analytical dashboards and alarm management tools

Role of LDS in the Pasigala Project

Within the Pasigala project, the Leak Detection System supports:

• Continuous monitoring of flow rates
• Real-time pressure supervision across distribution zones
• Early detection of abnormal hydraulic behavior
• Identification of priority areas for pipeline inspection and repair

This data-driven approach allows operators to focus maintenance efforts where they are most needed.

SCADA Integration and Smart Monitoring

The integration of LDS with SCADA enables:

• Centralized visualization of network conditions
• Automated alarm generation for potential leak events
• Web-based and mobile-accessible dashboards
• Automatic storage of historical operational data

As a result, operational decisions are no longer reactive but proactive and data-based.

Key Benefits of SCADA-Based LDS

Implementing LDS in the Pasigala water distribution system provides several strategic benefits:

• Reduction of water losses and NRW
• Faster response to leaks and pressure anomalies
• Lower operational and emergency repair costs
• Improved continuity and reliability of water supply
• Enhanced system transparency and accountability

A Phased Implementation Approach

Considering the post-disaster context, LDS implementation in Pasigala is carried out in phases:

1. Initial phase – Pressure and flow monitoring at critical zones
2. Intermediate phase – Full SCADA integration and alarm configuration
3. Advanced phase – Data analytics optimization and NRW reduction programs

This phased approach ensures system effectiveness while maintaining service continuity.

Toward a More Resilient Water Distribution System

In the context of infrastructure recovery, a SCADA-based Leak Detection System is more than a technical upgrade—it is a strategic step toward building a resilient, efficient, and sustainable water distribution network.

Through the Pasigala project, LDS serves as a foundation for digital transformation in water utilities, supporting long-term operational stability and improved service delivery.

WSI remains committed to delivering integrated monitoring and leak detection solutions that are aligned with real field conditions and future operational needs.

Smart monitoring today for reliable water supply tomorrow.