Propuesta técnica para asegurar el abastecimiento de agua potable de alta calidad en la vereda Catalina, Sahagún, Córdoba

Abstract

This project aims to improve the potable water supply in Vereda Catalina, located in Sahagún, Córdoba, to enhance the quality of life for its inhabitants. The technical pre-feasibility study encompasses several key stages for the efficient design and implementation of a water supply system in this rural community. Initially, a description of Vereda Catalina was provided, highlighting its 3,346 hectares and a population of 2,916 people distributed across 787 households. The current state of the water treatment and supply system was then evaluated, identifying limitations in the quality and availability of water resources. A demographic analysis projected water demand over the next 25 years, establishing a design period aligned with the community's future needs. Based on this data, the required design flow rate to meet potable water demand was determined to be 3.0 liters per second. Two water supply alternatives were proposed: one utilizing water from the Sinú River and another leveraging groundwater wells and a compact water treatment plant (PTAP). Technical, economic, and environmental criteria were evaluated to select the most suitable alternative. General criteria for modeling the water supply network were provided, and a basic engineering design was developed using existing secondary information such as topography, water quality, pipe diameter and material, and valve locations. Hydraulic simulation tools like EPANET were employed to ensure an efficient and reliable pre-feasibility design of the water distribution network. The alternative involving groundwater wells and a compact PTAP was selected due to its technical, economic, and environmental viability. This solution ensures a sustainable and high-quality potable water supply for the community of Vereda Catalina, contributing to the development and well-being of its inhabitants. Finally, a financial analysis was conducted, considering the operational expenses (OPEX) required to implement the compact water treatment plant. The financing for the PTAP purchase and the construction of the supply network will be covered by the government, as this is a social investment project.