Emerging Technologies in Smart Water Grids: Enhancing Urban Water Distribution Systems

Abstract:

Urban water distribution systems are under increasing pressure due to rapid urbanization, ageing infrastructure, water scarcity, and climate change. Traditional water networks often struggle with inefficiencies such as leakage, poor demand forecasting, and limited operational visibility. To counter this, smart water grids have become an innovative one and have used technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI), and analytics of big data to facilitate real-time monitoring, real-time control, and data-driven decision making. In this paper, I will discuss the major technologies that drive smart water grids, their potential real-life use in cities, and the many advantages associated with them, such as better efficiency of functioning, sustainability and customer experience. It also critically analyses the technical, financial, regulatory and organizational barriers to its overall establishment. The paper concludes by referring to a prospective discussion on how smart water grids can facilitate the shift toward more resilient and sustainable urban water systems.