Water and Sanitation Local Cooperation's RSIP

 2022-04-22  Resilience and Service Improvement Plan for Sana'a Water and Sanitation Local Corporation

Water and Sanitation Local Cooperation's RSIP

Annotated content page RSIP(Note for the reader; this annotated content page has been developed to facilitate the development of the Resilience and Service Improvement Plan (RSIP) report

1 Summary of the plan

This section provides a brief summary of the main problems and actions that were identified to enhance the performance of the utility and improve its resilience. The summary presents the main problems and solutions that have been identified related to the financial, administrative and technical performance, whilst also looking at possible environmental and man-made threats (Table 1).This section visualizes a brief summery for the main problems and procedures that were identified to enhance the performance of the utilities and improve its resilience plan. The summery also demonstrates main problems and the optimal solutions that have been identified regarding Financial, administrative and technical performance. It also highlights the possible environmental and humanitarian threats.

Table 1 Summary of main problems, proposed actions and time frame

The main problems and proposed actions are briefly presented below under three* main subheadings:

Financial, administrative and consumer related risks

Risk and intervention 1: …….. (just the name or a brief explanation of the problem; followed by the proposed intervention in a little more detail than indicated in the table)

Risk and intervention 2: …..

Risk and intervention 3: ……

Technical risks

Risk and intervention 1: …….

Risk and intervention 2: ……..

Risk and intervention 3: …….

This summery will very much help sharing the planned activities with different actors.

#Priority RiskRisk levels (frequency x effect)
1Water Tariff is not covering the cost of production
2Very high NRW (technical and financial losses)
3Suspending Governmental Funds and possible reduction external support from Donor Organizations
4High fuel prices and frequent fuel crises (Fuel Instability)
5Groundwater mining (falling water table mostly due to agriculture)intolerable risk
6High iron content in part of the boreholes (problem is increasing)medium risk
7Energy supply problems in most of the pumpsintolerable risk
8Frequent breakdown and deterioration of pumpsintolerable risk
95000 m3 reservoir destroyed by war replaced by direct pumpingmedium risk
10Pollution may enter network due to low/no pressureintolerable risk
11Water leakage resulting in less water reaching consumershigh risk
12Very intermittent and low volume of supply making that users may have to rely on other providersintolerable risk
13Households have water storage tanks that may be leaking, may not be adequately cleaned and pollution may enter ground tanksintolerable risk
14Consumers buy water from tankers who fill up their storage tanks, but this may not be of good qualityintolerable risk
15Households have water storage tanks that may be leaking, may not be adequately cleaned and pollution may enter ground tanksintolerable risk
16Consumers buy water from tankers who fill up their storage tanks, but this may not be of good qualityintolerable risk
17Deterioration of wastewater main lines and networks (Asbestos)intolerable risk
18Blockage of sewersmedium risk
19Power outage and lack of fuel at WWTPintolerable risk
20Insufficient capacity of WWTP to handle (uptake) the high BOD load (2.5 times design load) and new expanding in wastewater networks (new connections)intolerable risk

2 Introduction

The resilience and service improvement plan (RSIP) for the water utility ……….. was developed in ….., by a small team of .. persons (Annex 1). It presents an overview of the water supply and sewerage system, its main components, and the main problems related to the performance of the organization and the risks that have been identified related to the water quality, quantity and continuity of the water supply waste water services. It outlines the envisaged actions that have been prioritised to be implemented to enhance performance and improve resilience to respond to natural and manmade disasters. It includes a time frame, an indication of responsible actors, and provides a brief description of the monitoring and review process that is envisaged. The plan also looks at the risks related to the pandemic outbreak of COVID-19 virus.

Revise text: Whereas there is no indication of transmission of this virus through water supply, the pandemic may cause serious disruptions in system operations This may include shortage of staff, power disruptions, and shortages of chemicals and other supplies, caused for example by Government directives. Protecting the health and safety of employees needs to be emphasized in the risk mitigation plan to ensure that essential functions can be maintained..

The RSIP was approved by …. on …. (date), and will be reviewed on …. (date)

Table 2. Basic information about the utility and its customers

This section provides basic information of the water utility and its customers (Table 2)

Name of the utilitySana’a Water and Sanitation Local Corporation
City/GovernorateCapital city of Sana’a
City PopulationApprox. 3,500,000 (Including IDP’s)
Number of customers (water supply / wastewater)WS 635117 and WW 623343
Water supply/ Waste water coverageWS 55% and WW 45%
How many internally displaced persons (IDP) are served by the system (and % of IDP in area)350000
Per capita water demand (l/c/d)60
Average water demand (m3/day)Untitled38.107
Average water production (m3/day)Approx. 34,000
Average water volume billed (m3/day)17,743
Per capita consumption (l/c/d), (billed)Average 28
Operating hours/day and day/week18hrs/day, 3 times per month
Main Power sourceGenerators, Public Electricity, and Solar Power
Number of staff1527
Non-revenue water (NRW) (%)47.5%
Average volume of waste water produced (m3/day)Approximately 48,000
Average volume of waste water treated (m3/day)Approximately 48,000

Table 3a. Financial performance of the water branch of the utility

Financial performance of the water branch of the utility

Rate revenues(metered) per year2,649,068 USD
Income from flat rates (not metered) per year$ 33,941
Income from commercial customers per year$496711
Income from public taps, if any per year-
Subsidy (government, municipality) per yearNo subsidy since 2015
Other income (specify) per year11,148,262
Total annual income$ 14,327,982 water services and $3,510,674 wastewater
Total annual expenditures$ 14,706,839
Collection efficiency (payment received/billed amount/year)76 %
Annual cost recovery from users (income from users /expenditures)35%
Average cost of water production and distribution (per m3)0.65 $ / m3

Table 3b. Financial performance of the waste water branch

Table 3b. Financial performance of the waste water branch (This table only need to be included if cost for water and sanitation are available separately)

Income from waste water (WW) charges to users per year-
Income from WW charges to commercial customers per year-
Subsidy (government, municipality) per year-
Other income (specify) per year-
Total annual income-
Total annual expenditures-
Collection efficiency (payment received/billed amount/year)-
Annual cost recovery from users (income from users /expenditures)-
Average cost of waste water discharge and treatment (per m3)-

Table 4. Main cost items for the water and waste water (cost in $ per year) (2019)

Table 4. Main cost items for the water and waste water (cost in $ per year)

Staff cost for water supply -0
Staff cost for waste water-0
Staff cost-Total cost per year3.089653
Transport cost (vehicles etc.) for water supply -0
Transport cost (vehicles etc.) for waste water-0
Transport cost (vehicles etc.)-Total cost per year-0
Energy cost for water supply -0
Energy cost for waste water -0
Energy cost (also includes maintenance cost of all transport) - Total cost per year10,484,385
Chemicals costs for water supply-0
Chemicals costs for waste water -0
Chemicals costs-Total cost per year37,145
Materials costs for water supply -0
Materials costs for waste water -0
Materials costs -Total cost per year343,032
Contracts for larger repairs for water supply-0
Contracts for larger repairs for waste water -0
Contracts for larger repairs -Total cost per year172,407
Others for water supply-0
Others for waste water -0
Others-Total cost per year580,217
Total annual cost for water supply-0
Total annual cost for waste water -0
Total annual cost- Total cost per year14,706,839
The cost items include the monetary value of the in-kind contributions the utility receives; The table does not include cost related to system expansion If cost for water and waste water cannot be separated then just fill the last column-0

Table 5 Water balance

One key tool to assess the situation in the utility is the water balance (Table 5). Filling out the water balance will give an indication of the performance of the utility in terms of water supply. On average in 2019 a volume of …. m3 is put into supply and on average a volume of …. m3 is being billed to customers. A more detailed estimate of the water balance is presented in Table 5.

This overview only concerns the water loss as defined by IWA, which is about the water that is produced and put into supply. In addition however water may be ‘lost’ in the intake structure and in the transmission main to the water treatment plant, (or water tank with disinfection), the treatment process (backwash) and the transmission to water storage tanks.

Authorized consumption m3
Authorized consumption Billed m3 6.476.004
Authorized consumption Billed metered Volume m34.921.763
Authorized consumption Billed unmetered Volume m3-
Authorized consumption Billed Unpaid metered (partly delayed payment)Volume m31.554.241
Authorized consumption Billed Unpaid unmetered Volume m3-
Authorized consumption unbilled Volume m381.567
Authorized consumption unbilled metered Volume m3-
Authorized consumption unbilled unmetered m3-
Water losses m3
Water losses - apparent losses (commercial losses) m34.059.154
Water losses - apparent losses (commercial losses) - Metering inaccuracies volume m3-
Water losses - apparent losses (commercial losses) - Unauthorized consumption (illegal connections)volume m3-
Water losses Real losses volume m31.721.130
Water losses Real losses Leakages in storage reservoirs, distribution mains and service lines volume m3-
Water losses-Real losses -Overflow of water tanks, flushing of pipes volume m3-
Total Revenue water-Authorized\consumption4.921.763
Total non revenue water m37.416.097

Table 6 Main financial and organizational problems and risks

In this section the main financial and organizational problems are being presented that may jeopardize the performance and the resilience of the utility. Hazardous events in this area may relate to financing, administration and customer relationships (Table 6). The main hazardous events have to be identified and the risks have to be assessed to be able to prioritize action.

Problems may include a high level of non-revenue water. It may be this is already known in more detail (high water physical water loss, many illegal connections, and water meter inaccuracies). It may also be a more general problem of water tariffs that are not covering the cost, a large number of displaced persons with limited resources, or because other financial resources such as support from external organizations may be at risk.

Administrative problems may include: high staff turnover, weak staff regulations, administrative difficulties such as meter reading, inaccurate customer data base, as well as not following up on customer complaints.

#Hazardous event (and how the problem may affect service provision or the utility) HazardEffectFrequencyRisk levels (frequency x effect)
1Water Tariff is not covering the cost of productionIS = interruption in supply130133138
2Very high NRW (technical and financial losses)IS = interruption in supply130133138
3Suspending Governmental Funds and possible reduction external support from Donor OrganizationsIS = interruption in supply130133138
4High fuel prices and frequent fuel crises (Fuel Instability)IS = interruption in supply130133138

3 Review of risks in the water supply system

This section provides an overview of the system including some key characteristics (Table 7), a map with the system components (Figure 1) and an overview of the main risks that have been identified (Table 8). These risks may relate to different types of hazards including the deterioration of the biological, chemical or physical water quality, problems related to the availability of water, interruption of water distribution. The information presented in this chapter is based on the detailed assessment of each component of the water system presented in Annex 2.

Table 7. Basic information about the water supply system

This section provides an overview of the system including some key characteristics (Table 7), a map with the system components (Figure 1) and an overview of the main risks that have been identified (Table 8). These risks may relate to different types of hazards including the deterioration of the biological, chemical or physical water quality, problems related to the availability of water, interruption of water distribution. The information presented in this chapter is based on the detailed assessment of each component of the water system presented in Annex 2.

Type of water source(s)Groundwater
Number of boreholes and capacity (l/s)90 boreholes, average (15 l/s)
Depth of boreholes (range)Average 600m with a range(350-1000 )
Age (average and range)Average 15yrs, (range 10-25 years)
Average water production (m3/day)Approx. 34,000
Type of water treatmentChlorination dosing units for all working boreholes and some Iron Removal Units for needed boreholes
Design capacity (m3/day)NA
Transmission lines + pumping mains (km)265
Distribution system (service connections) (km)715
Water storage tanks (number& total capacity in m3)37 tanks and reservoirs, 36,500 m3 ranging (100 m3 to 5000 m3)
Number of operating water pumpsAbout 60 working boreholes out of 90 (pumps on 30 are not functioning (damaged energy supply because of war)
Spare pumps43 (basically repaired pumps in stock)
Number of house connections (W &WW)Approx. (96,000 & 91,500)
Part of house connections with meters (%)100%
Number of public, social and utility standpoints-0
Operating hours/day and day/weekAverage (three days/Month)
Main Power sourceGenerators
Number of bulk water meters94 with diameters 500,600,800 mm
Non-revenue water (NRW)47,5%
Commercial losses (%) of NRWNA
Leakage (%) of NRWNA
Average operating pressure (m) and range20 to 50 m
Number of pipe bursts (No/km/year)349 repairs / Year 2019
Specific damages caused by the warDestroying one main reservoir with capacity of (5,000m3) and three boreholes and energy supply to 27 boreholes
Schematic drawing of the system and its main components

Table 8. Summary of important hazards and risks in the components of the water system

Hazard type: M = microbial, C = chemical, P = physical, IS = interruption in supply.

Effect: 1 = minimal effect; 3 = serious impact, 5 = very serious impact

Frequency: Rare (1) < 1% of the time, cases, connections, area; Moderate (2) 1 – 20% of the time, cases, connections, area; Likely (3) > 20% of the time, cases, connections, area

Risk levels (frequency x effect): low risk < 3; medium risk 3 – 6; high risk 7 – 10; intolerable risk > 10

#Priority Risk HazardEffectFrequencyRisk levels (frequency x effect)
1Groundwater mining (falling water table mostly due to agriculture)141145148intolerable risk
2High iron content in part of the boreholes (problem is increasing)C = Chemical144147medium risk
3Energy supply problems in most of the pumps141145148intolerable risk
4Frequent breakdown and deterioration of pumps141145148intolerable risk
55000 m3 reservoir destroyed by war replaced by direct pumpingIS = Interruption in supply144147medium risk
6Pollution may enter network due to low/no pressure333145148intolerable risk
7Water leakage resulting in less water reaching consumers141145147high risk
8Very intermittent and low volume of supply making that users may have to rely on other providersIS = Interruption in supply145148intolerable risk
9Households have water storage tanks that may be leaking, may not be adequately cleaned and pollution may enter ground tanks334145148intolerable risk
10Consumers buy water from tankers who fill up their storage tanks, but this may not be of good quality M = Microbial145148intolerable risk
11Households have water storage tanks that may be leaking, may not be adequately cleaned and pollution may enter ground tanks334145148intolerable risk
12Consumers buy water from tankers who fill up their storage tanks, but this may not be of good quality M = Microbial145148intolerable risk

Overview of the water supply system

Figure 1. Overview of the water supply system

4 Waste water related problems

In this section the proposed actions to improve performance and enhance resilience are presented in some detail. The activities for each main risk are presented in a separate table (29 etc., ……)

Table 9. Basic information about the waste water system

This section provides an overview of the sewer system and waste water treatment plants, including some key characteristics (Table 9) and a map with the system components (Figure 2).


NameSana’a Wastewater Treatment Plant
Average annual flow (m3/year)17,500,000
Type of waste water treatment (and age)Activated Sludge, Since 2000
Annual average design flow (m3/year)18,000,000
Length of sewerage system (km) 600
Design organic load (BOD)500
Actual inlet organic load (BOD)Average 1200
Efficiency: outflow organic load (BOD)Average 300
Age of distribution system (average and range)Average 22 years10-35 years
Number of service connections91,500
Number of sewer left stations0; whole sewerage system is by gravity
Operating hours/day24/day
Main power sourceGenerators
Number of waste water overflow points7680
Specific damages caused by the warDamaged synchronization system (automatic switch to start generators when electricity fails)

​Table 10. Summary of important hazards and risks related to waste water​

Table 10 presents the main hazardous events and risks that have been identified. These risks may relate to different types of events including blockage of sewers causing contamination of housing areas, deterioration of the infrastructure, pumping problems, interruption or malfunctioning of the treatment system generating odour problems or fly nuisance but also low connection ratio in areas where onsite systems are causing problems. If wastewater management and financing is separated from the management of the water supply system, than risks may also include financing and staff problems. The resulting hazards may include contamination of the service area and of downstream water sources which may contribute to the spread of disease including for example cholera. In case a considerable number of risks exist a good option to consider is to present a more detailed analysis in an annex and just summarise the situation in Table 10.

#Hazardous event (and how hazard may arise) HazardEffectFrequencyRisk levels (frequency x effect)
1Deterioration of wastewater main lines and networks (Asbestos)343317320intolerable risk
2Blockage of sewers343316319medium risk
3Power outage and lack of fuel at WWTP344317320intolerable risk
4Insufficient capacity of WWTP to handle (uptake) the high BOD load (2.5 times design load) and new expanding in wastewater networks (new connections)344317320intolerable risk

The wastewater treatment system components

Figure 3: Picture of the basin area (watershed)

5 Overview of the main risks and possible control measures

Table 11. Effect of control measures on important risk

In this section the main risks that were identified in chapter 2, 3, and 4 are listed (Table 11). For some of these the utility may already have put already control measures or other interventions in place that may reduce the risk if effective or not. This needs to be taken into account in the final priority setting related to the different risks that were established in section 2, 3, and 4. To clarify this issue we can look at some examples. A possible hazardous event may be that a borehole gets contaminated because of inflow of water from the surface due to poor protection of the well head. Flooding may happen a few times a year (score 3 likely) and impact is serious (3) so risk is 9. The utility may have arranged for disinfecting wells after flooding, but this may not prevent water draining into the well when it rains. So the control measure does not seem effective. Hence despite the control measure the risk does remain 9. Another hazardous event may be experienced staff leaving the utility. A control measure that may have been put in place is to develop standard operating procedures so new staff knows what to do, but this may not be sufficient to overcome the lack of experience. So in that case the risk still may be high and this then requires a more in-depth analysis of the causes of experienced staff leaving

#ComponentPriority RiskExisting control measure (mitigation in place)TimeeffectRisk remaining taking with control measure
1F= FinanceWater Tariff is not covering the cost of productionCommercial water and wastewater tariff was increased, other tariffs not180185
2F= FinanceVery high NRW (technical and financial losses)Sealing of water tanks; Replacing broken water meters; NRW team in place; Purchase of NRW equipment, but not yet implemented; use of hand held PDA to support meter reading and allow for cash billing to customers with important increase in payment180185
3F= FinanceSuspending Governmental Funds and possible reduction external support from Donor OrganizationsDiscussion with donors but no clear long term agreementNo = No effect185
4F= FinanceHigh fuel prices and frequent fuel crises (Fuel Instability)Storing of fuel and installation of 26 solar pumps (operating 6 to 7 hours/day when sufficient sun) but efforts still too limited180185
5TR = TreatmentHigh iron content in part of the boreholes (problem is increasing)Water treatment units installed for seven boreholes and working; units need to be installed for another 15 boreholes180183
6SI = Source/IntakeEnergy supply problems in most of the pumpsStoring of fuel and installation of 26 solar pumps but efforts still too limited180185
7SI = Source/IntakeFrequent breakdown and deterioration of pumpsMaintenance needs to be improved but falling water tables cause problemsNo = No effect185
8TM = Transmission MainWater loss and possible pollution in the transmission mains due to leakage and possible breakageIf water meters work well leakages in transmission mains can be reduced;No = No effect183
9TR = TreatmentProblems with supply of chemicals for iron removal, chlorination and laboratory testingSupply management but very difficult because of war situationNo = No effect183
101755000 m3 reservoir destroyed by war replaced by direct pumpingDirect pumping is Fully effective so no need to restore reservoir at least until war end.Good = Important effect on risk 183
11DB = Distribution SystemPollution may enter network due to low/no pressureIntermittent supply; no action to keep pressure in distribution networkNo = No effect185
12DB = Distribution SystemWater leakage in distribution network hence less water reaching consumersLeak detection equipment purchased but not yet operational; some deteriorated pipes are being replacedNo = No effect185
13HS = Household Storage Very intermittent and low volume of supply making that users may have to rely on other providersNo action; no information provided to users that they cannot rely on water quality; 30 out of 90 boreholes not operationalNo = No effect185
14HS = Household Storage Households have water storage tanks that may be leaking, may not be adequately cleaned and pollution may enter ground tanksSome information is provided to users that they need to maintain their storage tanks and to treat their stored water180185
15HS = Household Storage Consumers buy water from tankers who fill up their storage tanks, but this may not be of good qualityNo information on risk involved in water from tankers; slight guidance on water treatmentNo = No effect185
16TM = Transmission MainDeterioration of wastewater main lines and networks (Asbestos)Rehabilitation activities for Some deteriorated main lines and sewer networks made of asbestos as well180185
17DB = Distribution SystemBlockage of sewersRegular Flushing and Preventive maintenance activities for sewer main lines180184
18TR = TreatmentPower outage and lack of fuel at WwtpWorking in completing the digesters project and preparing a proposal in operating Wwtp with solar power beside generators180185
19TR = TreatmentCapacity of Wwtp to handle (uptake) the new expanding in wastewater networks (new connections)Increasing the Capacity of the existing treatment plant by completing the digesters project and constructing a new Wwtp with a capacity of 100,000 m3180185
20TR = TreatmentMaintenance activities for Wwtp components & rehabilitation and substitution of deteriorated equipments.Cleaning and maintenance activities for 8 aeration tanks, 8 settling tanks, 4 thickeners, and lagoon. In addition, maintenance for (SKL3) generator.180185
21TR = TreatmentCapacity of Wwtp to handle (uptake) the new expanding in wastewater networks (new connections)Increasing the Capacity of the existing treatment plant by completing the digesters project and constructing a new Wwtp with a capacity of 100,000 m3180185
22TR = TreatmentMaintenance activities for Wwtp components & rehabilitation and substitution of deteriorated equipments.Cleaning and maintenance activities for 8 aeration tanks, 8 settling tanks, 4 thickeners, and lagoon. In addition, maintenance for (SKL3) generator.180185

6. Action plan for prioritised resilience risks

Table 12. Summary of action plan for prioritised risks related to the finance and administration

This section presents an action plan for the prioritised performance and resilience risks that relate to financing, organization, administration, and customer relations (Table 12). Some lower priority actions may also be included in the table if they are very easy to overcome at low or no cost. For the actions, it is essential to take a gender sensitive approach and take into account gender specific data.

#ComponentMain intervention(s)Responsible TimeCostHazardous event (and how the problem may affect service provision or the utility) Risk levels (frequency x effect)
1F=FinanceDevelop different scenarios to increase the water tariff and discuss with Board of Directors which option they can establish to at least cover O&M expenses and reach a minimum level of sustainability))Sana’a Lc Board of Directors6 months-0Water Tariff is not covering the cost of production
2F=FinanceDevelop a detailed NWR reduction plan based on a better understanding of the water balance; needs to include: meter inaccuracies, illegal connections, active leakage control and customer relationsNRW Dept.3 to 6 months-0Very high NRW (technical and financial losses)
3F=FinanceContinue with the dialogue with donors underscoring the importance of the SWSLC and the risks related to alternative water supply and try to reach long-term agreement.Sana’a Lc leadership + Donors3 months-0Suspending Governmental Funds and possible reduction external support from Donor Organizations
4F=FinanceImproving energy efficiency, reducing fuel consumption by increasing solar pumps, reducing NRW, covering costs by increasing tariffs, whilst seeking continuation of support from donors and the government.Sana’a Lc leadership + DonorsOne year-0High fuel prices and frequent fuel crises (Fuel Instability)

Table 13. Summary of action plan for prioritised water supply performance risks.

#ComponentIntervention(s)ResponsibleTimeCost ($)Priority Risk Risk levels (frequency x effect)
1Approaching Ministry of Water & Environment and Local Councils to regulate well construction and to reduce abstraction for agricultureMinistry of Water & Environment3 to 6 months-0Groundwater mining (falling water table mostly due to agriculture)intolerable risk
2Explore the magnitude of the problem; how many users actually buy from other providers; Analyse realistic options for increasing water supplyDistribution Dept3 to 6 months20,000Pollution may enter network due to low/no pressureintolerable risk
3Explore the magnitude of the problem for the customers (can be in combination with household storage and water meter accuracy)Public Affairs + Customer Services Dept.2 months5,000High iron content in part of the boreholes (problem is increasing)medium risk
4Specialized technical training courses pertaining submersible pumps safe installation, efficiency, and maintenance.Sana’a Lc + Donors3 to 6 months50,000Energy supply problems in most of the pumpsintolerable risk
5Installing an additional 15 Iron removal treatment UnitsSana’a Lc + Donors6 to 9 months1,000,000Frequent breakdown and deterioration of pumpsintolerable risk
6Increase the level of coordination with International donor organizations to facilitate importing needed chemicals on time.Sana’a Lc + DonorsAs soon as possible-0Water leakage resulting in less water reaching consumershigh risk
7Make a more detailed analysis of the problem looking at maintenance of a selection of tanks (in combination with water quality testing, meter testing and buying water from tankers)Planning & Projects Dept. + Lab Dept.3 to 6 months10,000Very intermittent and low volume of supply making that users may have to rely on other providersintolerable risk
8Installing an additional 12 Solar Systems and working in energy efficiency technics.Sana’a Lc + Donors1 year1,800,000Households have water storage tanks that may be leaking, may not be adequately cleaned and pollution may enter ground tanksintolerable risk
9Make a more detailed analysis of the problem looking at maintenance of a selection of tanks (in combination with water quality testing, meter testing and buying water from tankers)Planning & Projects Dept. + Lab Dept.3 to 6 months10,000Consumers buy water from tankers who fill up their storage tanks, but this may not be of good qualityintolerable risk
10Make an analysis of bacteriological water quality in different households at start of pumpingLab Dept.Through the year30,000 $/yearHouseholds have water storage tanks that may be leaking, may not be adequately cleaned and pollution may enter ground tanksintolerable risk
11Explore the magnitude of the problem; how many users actually buy from other providers; Analyse realistic options for increasing water supplyDistribution Dept3 to 6 months20,000Consumers buy water from tankers who fill up their storage tanks, but this may not be of good qualityintolerable risk
12Make an analysis of possible changes in service provision to users (pressure, water volume) and explore solutions for service improvement if neededPlanning and Projects Dept.& Technical Dept.2 months5,0005000 m3 reservoir destroyed by war replaced by direct pumpingmedium risk

Table 14. Summary of action plan for prioritised wastewater performance risks

#ComponentMain intervention(s)ResponsibleTimeCost ($)Hazardous event (and how hazard may arise) Risk levels (frequency x effect)
1Rehabilitation activities for deteriorated main lines and networks made of asbestosPMU3 years50,000,000Deterioration of wastewater main lines and networks (Asbestos)intolerable risk
2Completing the digesters project and Preparing studies to operate Wwtp with solar power beside generatorsPMU + Planning and Projects Dept.Until the country stabilizes (war end)-0Blockage of sewersmedium risk
3Increasing the Capacity of the existing treatment plant (Digesters) and constructing a new Wwtp with a capacity of 100,000 m3; Another option may be to enhance waste water treatment in industry and adopting small bore sewers for new settlementsSana’a Lc +DonorsUntil the country stabilizes (war end)-0Power outage and lack of fuel at WWTPintolerable risk
4Regular maintenance of wwtp treatment units & Replacement of two refinery units (mechanical screens) & Repairing two sand separator containers & maintenance activities to restart the sewage tankers treatment plant (capacity 500m3/day) & repairing 4 major dispensers (final settling tanks) & substitution of 7 sludge discharge pumps. Maintenance of all sludge drying beds & physical separation units & requirements for insects control (convenient pesticides, spray equipments, ........), spare parts and oils.Sana’a Lc + Donors12 to 18 months2,000,000Insufficient capacity of WWTP to handle (uptake) the high BOD load (2.5 times design load) and new expanding in wastewater networks (new connections)intolerable risk

7. Proposed monitoring system

The proposed monitoring comprises two main issues: overall monitoring of the monthly performance of the water supply and waste water system and progress with the implementation of the RSIP.

In this section it is also important to indicate when the RSIP will be reviewed and revised as needed (possibly on an annual basis).

Annex 1 RSIP Team and list of advisors that where consulted

The proposed monitoring system needs to cover system performance, effectivity op control measures, and implementation of the RSIP.

In this section it is also important to indicate when the RSIP will be reviewed and revised as needed (possibly on an annual basis).

#NameOrganizationRole in teamContact NumberEmail
1Eng. Ameen Al-MaweriSWSLCTeam Leader+967-777-474-841Eng_ar1@yahoo.com
2Mohammed Al-mutawakelSWSLCTeam member+967-777-323-538almutawakelma@yahoo.com
3Mohammed Al-shamiSWSLCGeneral Director+967-777-200-339Alshami19756@gmail.com
4Eng. Mohammed ModaesSWSLCDeputy Manager for Tech. Affairs+967-777-050-708Alahmed458@gmail.com
5Saleh Abu-kahlaSWSLCAccounting Head+967-777-177-813 Acc.kahla@gmail.com

Overview of the boreholes used for the water supply

Overview of the boreholes used for the water supply

Table 15. Important risks in the water catchment area

Provide a brief description of the catchment area (Figure 3) (in case of a groundwater scheme of the aquifer and its main recharge area) and an indication of the main hazardous events in the water catchment area (water quality, water availability, landslides, catchment deterioration, expansion of agricultural border) that may affect system performance, the hazards involved, the possible effect, the frequency and the resulting risk (Table 14). It is important to indicate whether the water utility by itself can do something in the water catchment or that it depends on other actors. This may include for example climate change related problems or over pumping by other actors.

#Hazardous event (and how hazard may enter/ affect system) Hazard typeEffectFrequencyRisk levels (frequency x effect)
1Mining of groundwater which may lead to depletion in foreseeable future (Groundwater mostly used for agriculture (specially watering Qat) (quickly dropping ground water table )P = physical5 = very serious impact196200
2Increasing iron content of several boreholesC = Chemical3 = serious impact196199

Table 16. Important risks in the water source and water intake

Provide a brief description of the water source(s) and water intake(s) (Figure 4) and an indication of the main hazardous events that may affect the system performance, the hazards involved, the possible effect, the frequency and the resulting risk (Table 15). This may include contamination of the source, deteriorating water quality in the source, lack of power sources, falling water table, damages of the intake due to war, flooding or other causes. If several boreholes exist, it may be an option to combine the description of the boreholes that tap the same aquifer, to minimize the length of the report. Yet it is essential that specific risks and hazardous events that are related to specific boreholes, such as high sensitivity to war damages, conflict points, or technical cracks in cover or casing that affect water quality of the borehole. Also provide a brief description of possible water loss that may take place in the water intake or transmission lines (Table 16). Whereas this is not included in the definition of non-revenue water it is important to understand the situation and explore whether this water loss can be prevented as it may make more water available for the water system or for other users. Water losses due to illegal use from the wells field or in the transmission lines for irrigation purposes consumes massive amount of water compared to domestic illegal uses.

#Hazardous event (and how hazard may enter/ affect system) Hazard typeEffectFrequencyRisk levels (frequency x effect)
1Groundwater mining (falling water table)203207210214
2Some microbiological pollution in a few boreholes201205208211
3Increased iron content of water in the boreholes202207210214
4Energy supply problems in most of the pumpsIS = Interruption in supply207210214
5Frequent breakdown of pumpsIS = Interruption in supply207210214

Overview of the Technical Design of Lc Boreholes

Figure 4. Overview of the Technical Design of Lc Boreholes

Table 17. Water loss in the water intake

Provide a brief description of the transmission main (length, diameter, type of material, age, condition, water meter(s) and valves) (Figure 4) and an indication of the main hazardous events that may affect the system performance, the hazards involved, the possible effect, the frequency and the resulting risk (Table 17). This may include: leaking pipes, old pipes, landslides, poor reparations, illegal connections, etc. In case of pumping issues may be lack of fuel, poor electricity supply, inadequate maintenance etc. Also give an indication of the water loss that may take place (Table 18).

#Description of water loss Magnitude* l/s and %
1NANA

Picture of a diagram of the transmission lines

Overview of the Technical Design of Sana’a Lc Boreholes

Table 18 Important risks in the transmission main

Provide a brief description of the transmission main (length, diameter, type of material, age, condition, water meter(s) and valves) (Figure 4) and an indication of the main hazardous events that may affect the system performance, the hazards involved, the possible effect, the frequency and the resulting risk (Table 17). This may include: leaking pipes, old pipes, landslides, poor reparations, illegal connections, etc. In case of pumping issues may be lack of fuel, poor electricity supply, inadequate maintenance etc. Also give an indication of the water loss that may take place (Table 18).

#Hazardous event (and how hazard may enter/ affect system) Hazard typeEffectFrequencyRisk levels (frequency x effect)
1Water loss (including illegal connections) and possible pollution n the transmission mains due to leakage and possible breakageIS,M,C=interruption in supply+physical+chemical221223227

Table 19. Water loss in the transmission main

Table 19. Water loss in the transmission main

#Description of water loss Magnitude* l/s and %
1NANA

A picture or diagram of the treatment system and chlorination plants

Figure 6. A picture or diagram of the treatment system and chlorination plants

Table 20. Important risks related to the water treatment system​​

Hazard type: M = microbial, C = chemical, P = physical, IS = interruption in supply

Effect: 1 = minimal effect; 3 = serious impact, 5 = very serious impact

Frequency: Rare (1) < 1% of the time, cases, connections; Moderate (2) 1 – 20% of the time, cases, connections; Likely (3) > 20% of the time, cases, connections

#Hazardous event (and how hazard may enter/ affect system) Hazard typeEffectFrequencyRisk levels (frequency x effect)
1The iron removal units are operating properly but some problems exist with the supply of chemicals due to the war situation.C = Chemical236239242
2Problems with chlorination concern the irregular supply of chlorine compounds and chemicals for laboratory tests (ban on importation of chemicalsM = Microbial236239242

Table 21. Water loss in the treatment system

Table 21. Water loss in the treatment system

#Description of water loss Magnitude* l/s and %
1NANA

Pictures of typical meter situation and storage tanks

Figure 7: Pictures of typical meter situation and storage tanks

Table 22. Important risks in the storage reservoir(s)

Provide a brief description of the storage reservoir(s) (Figure 7) and an indication of the main hazardous events that may affect the system performance, the hazards involved, the possible effect, the frequency and the resulting risk (Table 21). This may include: leakages, damage because of the war, contamination, lack of maintenance. In case water chlorination is included in the storage reservoir than this also needs to be described (and this may entail problems with the supply of chlorine. Also give an indication of the water loss that may take place including water that may be lost through the overflow or water used for cleaning (Table 22).

#Hazardous event (and how hazard may enter/ affect system) Hazard typeEffectFrequencyRisk levels (frequency x effect)
1The reservoir of 5000 m3 that was totally smashed by the war; affecting the supply of about 50,000 people is replaced by direct pumping but the level of service is lowerIS = interruption in supply250253256

Table 23. Water loss in water storage reservoir

Table 23. Water loss in water storage reservoir

#Description of water loss Magnitude* l/s and %
1NANA

Water Distribution Network Diagram

Figure 8: Diagram of water distribution networks

Table 24. Important risks in the distribution system(s

Provide a brief description of the distribution system(s) (length, diameter, type of material, age, condition, overflow, water meter(s) and valves) and a schematic drawing of the system (Figure 8). Indicate the main hazardous events that may affect the system performance, the hazards involved, the possible effect, the frequency and the resulting risk (Table 23). This may include: intermittent water supply (rationing), high leakage, illegal connections, inadequate repairs, damage due to the war. Also give an indication of the water loss that may take place and the water pressure distribution (Table 24).

#Hazardous event (how hazard may enter/ affect system) Hazard typeEffectFrequencyRisk levels (frequency x effect)
1Pollution may enter the distribution system as this is not under pressure for most of the timeM = Microbial265268272
2Water leakage resulting in less water reaching consumers when pipes are under pressure (7.5% of the time)P = physical265267271
3Very intermittent and low volume of supply making that users may have to rely on other providersIS = interruption in supply265268272

Table 25. Water loss in water distribution system

#Description of water loss Magnitude* l/s and %
1NANA

A picture of the condition of the meter and the household tank

Figure 9: Picture of the case of the meter and the household tank

Table 26. Important risks in Household water storage

Provide a brief description of household water situation (type of water meter, household water storage (size, type of material) (Figure 9) and an indication of the main hazardous events that may affect the system performance, the hazards involved, the possible effect, the frequency and the resulting risk (Table 25). Explore whether risks are gender specific. Give an indication of the water loss that may take place (flowing toilets, plumbing problems, leaking taps, including water that may be lost through the overflow of storage tanks (Table 26).

#Hazardous event (and how hazard may enter/ affect system) Hazard typeEffectFrequencyRisk levels (frequency x effect):
1Households have water storage tanks that may be leaking, may not be adequately cleaned and pollution may enter ground tanks347279282286
2Consumers buy water from tankers who fill up their storage tanks, but often this may not be of good qualityM = Microbial279282286

Table 27. Water loss at household level

#Description of water loss Magnitude* l/s and %
1NANA

Pictures of alternative water sources

Figure 10: Pictures of alternative water sources

Table 28. Important risks in alternative water systems

Provide a brief description of alternative water systems (Figure 10), the level of use by consumers and an indication of the main hazardous events that may affect these systems, the hazards involved, the possible effect, the frequency and the resulting risk (Table 27). This may include for example local water distribution points that provide water to the community which they receive from tankers (paid by humanitarian organizations), local wells and rainwater systems. In the Yemeni context alternative water sources may be an important source for drinking water and may for example entail a risk of spreading cholera, but also may affect water sales of the utility, affecting its financial sustainability and resilience.

#Hazardous event (how hazard may enter/ affect system) Hazard typeEffectFrequencyRisk levels (frequency x effect)
1High risk of pollution related to the water supply from other suppliersM = Microbial293296300
2Insufficient water quantity available to consumers because of high cost of supply by tankersIS = interruption in supply293296300

Table 29. Less important risks that were identified

Table 29: Less important risks that were identified

#Hazardous event (how hazard may enter/ affect system) Hazard typeEffectFrequencyRisk levels (frequency x effect)
1Not AvailableP = physical306309312

Table 30. Intervention to reduce risk of water tariff not covering cost

Intervention to reduce risk of water tariff not covering cost

#Problem descriptionCompletionCost ($)Proposed solutionMain activities
1Water Tariff is not covering the cost of production among others due to high cost of fuel and high NRW3 to 6 monthsNAThis requires an integrated solution that should include enhancing the operating efficiency (reducing NRW, reduce fuel consumption, increase water tariff)1. Increase the understanding of NRW as this may generate more income even at low cost taking care of meter inaccuracies and legalizing illegal connections 2. Develop different tariff scenarios to reduce the gap between income and cost of production and their implication for users 3. Reduce fuel consumption by installing more solar pumps (whilst also looking at implications in terms of maintenance and maintenance cost 4. Explore continued support of donors and possibly government if tariff increase is difficult for(part of the) users 5. Explore if the role of the Capital Secretariat that can bear 30% of the subscribers' debt can be enhances 6. Explore options to enhance energy efficiency to reduce losses in energy

Table 31. Intervention to Very high NRW (technical and financial losses)

Intervention to Very high NRW (technical and financial losses)

#Problem descriptionCompletionCost ($)Proposed solutionMain activities
1Very high level of non-revenue water due to both technical as well as administrative problemsNANATo develop a comprehensive strategy and action plan to reduce NRW1. Develop a small task force to support the NRW department as NRW reduction activities relate to different sections of the water company 2. Evaluate NRW reduction activities already in place (e.g. leakage control of tanks ...etc.) 3. Review magnitude of different problems (e.g. check/repair bulk water meters, check meter inaccuracies including zero reading (pilot area simply checking meter against volume put in tank), check technical water loss. 4. Prepare a comprehensive plan to reduce NRW looking at different types of interventions (improve meter accuracy, legalise illegal connections, active leakage control with help of GIS, building customer relations). 5. Initiate implementation of practical improvements (repair bulk water meters, test and replace household meters etc.)

Table 32. Intervention to reduce risk of high fuel prices and frequent fuel crises (Fuel Instability)

Intervention to reduce risk of high fuel prices and frequent fuel crises (Fuel Instability)

#Problem descriptionCompletionCost ($)Proposed solutionMain activities
1High fuel prices and frequent fuel crises and no affordability to purchase fuel because water Tariff is much lower than water production expense and high NRW1 year2,000,000The solution is based on improving operating efficiency by improving energy efficiency, reducing fuel consumption, reducing NRW, covering costs by increasing tariffs, whilst seeking continuation of support from donors and the government.1. Installing 12 solar power systems to operate boreholes 2. Decreasing the fuel losses through energy efficiency procedures including replacement of deteriorated generators 3. Seek to increase water tariff whilst taking specific measures for the poor 4. Reducing NRW (see A2.9.2) 5. Request for continuation of donor and government support with fuel prices and electricity bills, whilst showing the efforts in place to improve efficiency and to reach more people.

table 33.Intervention to reduce risk of households water storage tanks

In this section, the proposed actions to improve the system and enhance its resilience are presented in some detail. In this version of the report the activities related to only one of the main risks are presented in table (A2.10.1); in the final version also the other priority actions will be included.

#Problem descriptionCompletionCost ($)Proposed solutionMain activities
1Water leakage from household water storage tanks and not cleaning them sufficiently, and polluted water may enter the ground tanksDecember 2020 March 2021 Regular basis as of 2021 respectively to main activities NATesting random samples for a set of household storage tanks and analyzing the quality and safety of water with organizing an awareness campaign or activities to promote hygiene, to clarify the importance of cleanliness of containers and tanks for the family and how to clean them properly1. Organizing a test to inspect a random sample of household storage tanks, to ensure their safety, and to check the quality and safety of water. During visit advantage will be taken to also check meter against water flowing into tank. 2. Preparing awareness campaigns explaining the importance of tank cleanliness, how to clean them properly, and how to conduct periodic checks to ensure that there is no leakage of water from the ground tanks. 3. Periodic inspection of water quality at the water sources and in consumers’ storage tanks, and taking the necessary measures to maintain water safe and with high quality as well

table 34: Intervention to reduce risk of sewers blockage

In this section, the proposed actions to improve the system and enhance its resilience are presented in some detail. In this version of the report the activities related to only one of the main risks are presented in table (34); in the final version also the other priority actions will be included.

#Problem descriptionCompletionCost ($)Proposed solutionMain activities
1Blockage of sewers due to misuse and direct discharging of waste from commercial and industrial activities without preliminary treatment using sedimentation basins in addition to opening sewage manholes covers during rain, as well as lack of adequate maintenance of main sewage lines3 to 6 months300,000This requires an integrated solution that must include all the causes of the problem (periodic maintenance of sewage lines, awareness campaigns, and practical advice to industrial and commercial customers to pre-treat the wastewater before putting it into the sewer. The pre-treatment may also help to reduce BOD overload.1. Develop a detailed intervention plan 2. Provide maintenance equipment and carry out the periodic flushing of main sewer lines. 3. Preparing public awareness campaigns clarifying the importance of the correct use of the sewage network in maintaining a longer life of the network and avoiding the risks of spreading diseases and epidemics resulting from misuse and sewage flooding, as well as clarifying the importance of their role and responsibility in the success of this. 4. Identify main customer groups who have industrial and commercial activities (restaurants, factories, print shops, car washrooms, and slaughterhouses) and provide practical advice on wastewater treatment to reduce BOD and sediment load. 5. Ensure periodical monitoring particularly of customers with a higher level of pollution. 6. Replace connections that do not meet specifications (and impose violating fees if in order. 7. Imposing fees for violations of misusing or opening the manholes covers during the rain