Thesis Abstract

Abstract
Water supply planning is a critical process that involves assessing current and future water demands to ensure sustainable access to clean and safe water resources. This research project focuses on the importance of integrated water supply planning in addressing growing water scarcity issues and increasing water demands due to population growth and climate change. The study emphasizes the need for comprehensive water supply planning that takes into account various factors such as population growth projections, land use changes, climate variability, and infrastructure development. By considering these factors, water planners can develop strategies to meet future water demands while safeguarding water quality and ecological balance. The research project also highlights the significance of stakeholder engagement in the water supply planning process. Engaging with stakeholders, including government agencies, water utilities, community groups, and environmental organizations, is essential for developing inclusive and sustainable water management solutions. By involving stakeholders in the planning process, decision-makers can ensure that the diverse needs and concerns of all parties are taken into consideration. Furthermore, the study explores the role of technology and innovation in water supply planning. Advancements in water treatment technologies, data analytics, and modeling tools have the potential to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of water supply systems. Integrating these technologies into the planning process can help water utilities optimize resource allocation, improve system resilience, and mitigate risks associated with water scarcity and quality issues. In conclusion, this research project underscores the importance of proactive and integrated water supply planning in ensuring long-term water security and sustainability. By considering factors such as population growth, climate change, stakeholder engagement, and technological advancements, water planners can develop robust strategies to address current and future water challenges. Implementing comprehensive water supply plans will not only help meet growing water demands but also promote resilient and adaptive water management practices that benefit both present and future generations.

Thesis Overview

Water is one of the most important natural resources for all life on earth. The availability and quality of water always have played an important part in determining not only where people can live, but also their quality of life. Even though there always has been plenty of fresh water on earth, water has not always been available when and where it is needed, nor is it always of suitable quality for all uses. Water must be considered as a finite resource that has limits and boundaries to its availability and suitability for use.Inadequate water supply in  Arawa  area  of  Gombe  has  been  associated  with  lack  of accessibility  and   population increase . As population of the area increases with time, competition for water demand also increases which outweighs the supply of water in the area thereby rendering water supply inadequate.Also reasons such as the inability to extract water from  sources  due to non-distribution of  public  water  supply  systems  and  lack of  maintenance  of  water facilities in the study area  have  contributed  to  the  insufficiency  of  water  supply.The  survey  was  carried  out  as  a  result  of  the  inadequacies  in  the  provision  of  public  water  supply  in  Arawa  community. So far, the  research  was  able  to  dictate  the  nature  and  problems  of  water  supply  in  the  study  area. The  field  survey  and  analysis  shows  that  the  problem  of  water  supply  in   the  area  ranges  from  the  absence  of  public  pipe  borne  water  which  have  been  related  to  the  neglect  of  the  area  by  the  state  water  corporation  board, poor  maintenance  of  facilities  due  to  lack  of  funds  as  well  as  the  rapid  population  growth  of  the  area.