Introduction to Water Supply and Sanitary Engineering:
Water is a natural resource found on the surface and underground. It is necessary for the survival of humans and other living things. We need water to produce food and energy, which helps the economic and industrial growth of a society. So, every city or town must have a safe and steady supply of water.
This unit explains water supply systems and why water and sanitation are important for life and the environment. It also teaches the need and goals of water supply schemes and how to draw a flow diagram for these schemes.
Importance of Water to Life and Environment (Rewritten in simple sentences)
Water covers about two-thirds of the earth’s surface. Also, about 75% of the human body is made up of water. This shows that water is one of the main elements needed for life on earth. Water moves through the land just like it moves through our body. It carries, dissolves, and adds nutrients and organic matter, and also removes waste.
In our body, water controls the work of fluids, tissues, cells, lymph, blood, and gland secretions. An average adult has about 42 liters of water in the body. If a person loses just about 2.7 liters, they can become dehydrated. This can cause irritability, tiredness, nervousness, dizziness, weakness, headaches, and even health problems.
Water affects all parts of life, either directly or indirectly. Without water, there would be no plants on land and no oxygen for animals to breathe. The earth would look completely different without water. Water is needed to keep our bodies and the environment healthy. So, we should value water and protect it as a precious resource.
Necessity of water:
The use of water by man, animal,s and plants is universal. Without it, there can be no
life. Every living thing requires water. Everywhere water is necessary feverywhere or various
purposes. Such as,
a. For drinking and cooking
b. For bathing and washing
c. For watering of lawns and gardens
d. For the growing of crops
e. For street washing
f. For fire fighting
g. For power production
h. For various industrial production
i. For recreation in swimming pools, fountains and cascades
j. For the heating and air conditioning system
k. For sanitation
Importance of Water and Sanitation
Water and sanitation are essential for human health, dignity, and development. Clean water is vital for drinking, cooking, and hygiene. Proper sanitation systems help prevent the spread of diseases by safely disposing of human waste.
Without access to safe water and proper sanitation, people, especially children, are at higher risk of waterborne illnesses like cholera, diarrhea, and dysentery. These diseases can be fatal and are a leading cause of death in many developing countries.
Good sanitation practices also promote dignity and safety, especially for women and girls, and allow children to attend school regularly. Moreover, clean water and sanitation contribute to environmental protection by preventing water pollution.
In summary, water and sanitation are key components for a healthy life, social well-being, and sustainable development. They are recognized as basic human rights and are essential for building resilient and thriving communities.
Water Supply Schemes and Flow Diagram (Paragraph Form)
Water supply schemes are an essential branch of engineering that focuses on the provision of safe, clean, and sufficient water for various purposes such as domestic, industrial, and public use. These schemes involve the extraction of water from natural sources like rivers, lakes, streams, ponds, and wells. The collected water is then processed and distributed to consumers through a system of pumps, pipelines, and storage facilities. The main components of a typical water supply scheme include the water source, intake or collection works, treatment system, and distribution network.
The process begins with the collection of water from a reliable source. This is followed by intake or collection works, where the raw water is gathered using structures like intake wells or pumping stations. The water is then sent to a treatment plant, where it undergoes various processes such as sedimentation, filtration, chlorination, and aeration to remove impurities and ensure it is safe for consumption. After treatment, the clean water is stored in reservoirs or overhead tanks, from where it is distributed through an organized distribution network of pipes and pumps. This system ensures that water reaches households, industries, and public places in a timely and hygienic manner.
In summary, a water supply scheme is a complete system designed to provide safe and adequate water through a series of carefully engineered steps, ensuring public health and supporting sustainable development.
