Mapping of Water Distribution Network using GIS Technology in Bauchi Metropolis, Nigeria

Abstract

Increase in Population as well as demand for portable pipe-borne water in most of the cities of developing countries and the activities of the people greatly affect the pipes networks quietly laid beneath the ground. Locating such pipes and the features installed in them has been a task to tackle. Therefore to ensure proper surveillance and monitoring of laid down pipe around the metropolis need to be properly guided with modern technology like the use of Geographic Information Technology.  Hence, to solve these problems analogue data was acquired from the Bauchi State Water Board (BSWB) and converted to digital map (Raster format). (GPS) coordinate was used to locate pipes within the network, the nodes, valves, water hydrants, and busters). Finally, the position of each of the identified features within the network was obtained and recorded in the events table. Digital map of water distribution network of the metropolis was produced and queries were raised while the node valves or pipes underground were easily located using GPS coordinates by navigating from the surface. The study recommends the use of GIS as a decision making tool for municipal water system authorizes or agencies for proper management and evaluation of their installations.

Keywords; GIS, GPS Coordinates, ArcGIS, Bauchi Metropolis and Water distribution network