The use of GIS for supporting the experimental representation of the selected supply network in the Pafos municipality: The HydroGIS Lab

The Project focuses on the resolution of decreased water supply as a result of continued water shortage. The water loss is the result of several causes, notably water losses in the water supply network pipes, the ineffective operation of pumping stations and design of the networks are some of the most important problems which need to be addressed to optimize the performance of the water networks and save both water and the energy consumed. The Project is innovative as it is the first time that several, state-of-the-art technologies, including Global Positioning System (GPS), Radar Scanners and Satellite Remote Sensing (SRS) will be combined to map the water networks. The data produced will be entered into a Geographic Information System (GIS), with the objective of developing a digital imprint and mapping of the network. Following, a representative section of the network will be selected and modeled in the new upgraded laboratory in order to conduct detailed experimental studies, which will be correlated with computational/mathematical studies. The main scientific challenge of the Project, which also characterizes its broader innovative aspect, lies in the possibility to optimize the design and also the operation of all the components of the network, through the combined use of hydraulic simulation models and multi-criteria evolution algorithms. © 2014 SPIE