Assessment of the operational status of a wastewater treatment plant using the FAHP Process: case study of the Ain El Houtz WWTP in Algeria

The study aimed to assess the performance and characteristics of the wastewater treatment processes at the WWTP in Ain el Houtz, Algeria. The operational level of the WWTP was evaluated using the Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process (FAHP), which considers various criteria and sub-criteria to determine the plant's status. A total of 26 factors and sub-factors were selected for the analysis. The FAHP method was used to assign weights to these factors at each level, and expert scores were utilized to calculate the overall operational score (R). The primary outcome of our study is a control model for the WWTP that can be applied in any situation. In a crisis, this model helps engineers devise strategies to prevent plant shutdowns and protect the environment from urban pollution. As a result, this method plays a vital role in the maintenance and management of wastewater treatment plants by providing a crucial and highly effective scientific tool for decision-making. By utilizing this method, plant operators and managers can make informed and data-driven choices, ensuring that the treatment processes run efficiently and effectively. This method allows for better planning, resource allocation, and problem-solving, all of which are essential for the smooth operation and long-term sustainability of wastewater treatment facilities. In turn, this contributes to improved environmental protection and public health by ensuring that wastewater is treated to the highest standards before being released back into the environment.