Comparative Operation and Maintenance Cost Study of Shaft Over the RCC ESR in Rural Water Supply Scheme

Abstract: Reinforced Cement Concrete (RCC) Elevated Service Reservoirs (ESRs) are widely utilized in rural water supply systems for water storage and distribution. However, their implementation in rural areas presents various challenges, including high initial costs, extended construction durations, difficulties in maintenance and repairs, concerns regarding structural stability, issues with land acquisition, water leakage, and susceptibility to natural disasters. The primary objective of this study is to examine the challenges encountered in operating rural water supply schemes, explore the use of shafts as an alternative to RCC ESRs in such schemes, conduct a cost analysis comparing shafts and RCC ESRs, and evaluate their performance and lifecycle through case studies. Therefore, the aim of this study is to reduce the overall cost of water supply projects, shorten the project completion time, and minimize future operational and maintenance expenses