An optimal water supply network using a network based relational approach, case study of Khemis Miliana City in Algeria

Efficient water distribution networks are essential for ensuring safe and reliable water supplies, which require strategic repair and maintenance planning. This study applied the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) to evaluate hydraulic, operational, environmental, and physical criteria by integrating hydraulic simulations and expert opinions. Additionally, the approach uniquely incorporates the impact of seismic and ground movement on network performance and resilience, aiming to enhance infrastructure robustness in hazard-prone areas. Key findings revealed that out of 89 main water pipes, 3.37 % demonstrated high performance, 79.78 % were acceptable, and 16.85 % were classified as poor. Long-term analysis showed that aging could reduce pipe performance by up to 39.50 %. These results emphasize the importance of corrective planning and provide actionable insights for decision-makers to prioritize interventions in the water distribution system. • Optimal management of water distribution network developed using hydraulic, operational, environmental and physical criteria= • Geographic Information System (GIS), AHP and hydraulic modelling was combined to develop the approach • The pipe performance was classified into good, acceptable and poor performance • Hydraulic and operation characteristics dominate in significance. • Aging affects water pressure, requiring long-term reinforcement.