A Blockchain Based Framework for Efficient Water Management and Leakage Detection in Urban Areas

Abstract

Sustainable urban water management is essential to handle water scarcity, leakage, and inefficient distribution. This paper covers water management in urban areas, including an introduction, an overview of water management practices, the characteristics and functioning of water distribution systems, monitoring and control systems for efficient distribution, smart systems for optimization, strategies for water conservation and waste management, per capita water demand analysis, and desalination plant overviews. The article proposes a blockchain-based water management architecture with IoT sensors for accurate reporting. The framework uses blockchain technology to authenticate and share real-time data between sensors and the water distribution dashboard. It also has a modular API for water leakage detection and flow control to decrease water waste and enhance distribution. The suggested approach might enhance water management; however, its execution is complex. Maintaining the framework’s efficacy is advised. The research provides insights into water management and proposes a technology solution employing blockchain and IoT sensors for trustworthy data reporting and effective water distribution to promote sustainable urban water management.

1. Introduction

Water is a limited resource that is vital to human existence and economic development. However, a lack of water is a critical problem in many parts of the world, including in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) owing to various causes, including population expansion, climate change, and wasteful use of water resources. With a meagre 100 mm of yearly precipitation, the KSA is among the driest countries on earth. A sophisticated system of pipelines and pumps is used to transport desalinated seawater which provides most of the country’s water supply.

Water resource distribution and management among users are worldwide challenges. In Saudi Arabia, desalination plants are established along the coastlines to ensure a readily available water supply. Monitoring how seawater is used by different customers and implementing smart techniques to reduce water loss is necessary for the Kingdom. The distribution, pressure, and waste of water are problems for the Madinah Munawara region. The flowmeters are in place in Yanbu, a city in the Madinah province, to track the pressure and flow of seawater distribution to various businesses but do not offer precise counts of the water delivered. It is challenging to distribute seawater based on consumption patterns and precisely estimate future demand due to the enterprises’ lack of a centralized dashboard system to track real-time data regarding seawater usage [1,2]. To effectively reduce water waste in the Madinah Munawara region, this study suggests an automated framework to monitor and manage the distribution and pressure of water supply. A smart system for monitoring and managing water distribution utilizing IoT, machine learning, and AI-based technologies is included in the framework. The proposed system also has a centralized dashboard system that offers real-time information on water use by various enterprises, which can be used to determine regional requirements and better plan water consumption. The study also recommends techniques to reduce water waste caused by leaks in the piped network [3,4,5,6].

The study’s goals are to minimize water loss due to leaks, provide useful data to the main server where bills are calculated based on water usage, and create a dashboard of the monitoring system that displays current water usage, forecasts future usage, and provides recommendations to each company on how to use water efficiently. The existing infrastructure of the water supply distribution in the KSA, the centralized control room for monitoring and controlling the supply of water to various companies, the monitoring and control of water pressure in pipes leading from a seawater plant to consumers, cooperative solutions to control leakage in the network of pipes leading from a desalinated plant to consumers and whether consumers receive suitable drinking water are some of the research questions this study looks into [7].

Yanbu is in the Al Madinah Province (or Region) of western Saudi Arabia. It is situated on the coast of the Red Sea. It is a major industrial city and port on the Red Sea in western Saudi Arabia. Due to its importance as an industrial hub, ensuring adequate water supply is essential, leading to the development of several water-related projects in and around the city. This project was built by assessing the Marafiq company’s profile providing sea water to various companies in Yanbu. Yanbu has been home to several seawater desalination plants, which convert seawater into potable water. These plants are critical to supplying freshwater to the industrial and residential areas of the city. The Saline Water Conversion Corporation (SWCC) of Saudi Arabia has been involved in the construction and operation of desalination facilities. Pipelines transport water from these desalination plants to consumers, both within Yanbu and other areas. Given the arid nature of the region, pipelines are a vital part of the infrastructure.

Marafiq is a key utilities service provider in Saudi Arabia, particularly in the industrial cities of Jubail and Yanbu. Marafiq serves a wide range of sectors and clients. As mentioned, Marafiq does supply utilities, including water, to Saudi Aramco facilities, especially given the proximity of Aramco refineries and facilities to Yanbu. Given the industrial nature of Yanbu, Marafiq provides services to various companies within industrial clusters such as petrochemical companies, refineries, and other related industries. Figure 1 shows the four water-related services provided by the water supply company in Yanbu. The first process shows the portable water production and distribution. Secondly, reclaimed water collection and treatment, which is used by the irrigation department. The third system is the seawater that provides water to the industries for cooling the machinery [8].

2. Water Management

The water distribution system in Madinah is crucial to the city’s infrastructure since it gives the city’s citizens and businesses a dependable and sustainable water supply. The National Water Company uses sophisticated monitoring and control technologies, such as sensors that measure water pressure, flow rate, and quality. Data analytics tools that process and analyze the data collected by sensors are used to ensure the efficient and effective operation of the system. With these technologies, the business can identify leaks, track water usage trends, and modify the water supply to various city areas according to demand and other considerations, as mentioned in

Table 1. Water resources and management practices in Saudi Arabia [10,11,12].

Category	Information
Water sources	Saudi Arabia’s primary water sources are groundwater, desalinated water, and wastewater treatment. Groundwater is mainly retrieved from deep aquifers in the country’s center and east, where desalination facilities usually are found.
Water treatment plants	Three hundred thirty treatment facilities have been established in Saudi Arabia owing to significant infrastructure investments in water treatment. These facilities utilize high-quality technology to treat wastewater, brackish water, and seawater, including reverse osmosis, ultrafiltration, and multi-stage flash distillation.
Water demand	Due to population growth, urbanization, and increased industrial and agricultural activity, Saudi Arabia has a high-water demand. The nation’s annual water use is thought to be over 20 billion cubic meters, with the agricultural sector accounting for much of this need.
Water loss and wastage	According to some estimates, up to 30% of Saudi Arabia’s water supply is wasted owing to leaks and other waste sources, which is a severe problem. The government has implemented several initiatives to prevent water loss, such as intelligent water management systems and financial incentives for businesses to use less water.
Distribution networks	The Saudi Arabian water distribution system is intricate, with several networks catering to various areas and industries. The government has spent money constructing new pipes and installing smart meters to keep track of water use to improve the distribution system.

and shown in Figure 2 [9].

In addition to the monitoring and control technologies, the National Water Company [13] is looking into using smart systems for water distribution, such as automated control systems that may instantly improve the operation of pumps and valves. These solutions can aid in the water distribution system’s improvement by minimizing water losses and encouraging sustainable water use habits. The National Water Company also promotes waste- and water-saving methods such as low-flow fixtures, wastewater treatment, and rainwater collection. These methods can help save resources, make Madinah a more livable city for all its citizens, and reduce water demand [14].

This research aims to enhance the region of Madinah Munawara’s water management and distribution system to serve as a model for other locations in the KSA and worldwide dealing with comparable difficulties.

3. Water Distribution Systems

A network of pipes, valves, pumps, and other pieces of equipment together, referred to as a water distribution system, transports water from its sources, such as a treatment plant or a well, to its destinations, such as residences, commercial buildings, and other facilities. The city’s water distribution system is managed by the National Water Company, delivering a reliable and long-lasting water supply for locals and companies. The water distribution system in Madinah caters to the city’s different water needs, which vary depending on factors including population density, climate, and seasonal fluctuations. A network of pipes, ranging in size from large main pipes to smaller distribution pipes, comprise the system that transports water from the source to various parts of the city. Additionally, the system has backup storage tanks for high-demand or low-supply pumping stations to transport water to sites at higher altitudes. The National Water Company employs various monitoring and control techniques to guarantee that the water distribution system runs as effectively and efficiently as possible. These include sensors that monitor water pressure, flow rate, and water quality, as well as data analytics systems that examine and analyze the information acquired by these sensors. Furthermore, the system contains computerized controls that change the water supply to various metropolitan areas in response to demand and other factors [15,16,17].

Overall, Madinah’s water distribution system ensures that citizens and businesses have a consistent and sustainable water supply. The National Water Company can offer a high level of service to the community while encouraging effective and sustainable water use habits by leveraging cutting-edge technologies and best practices in water management.

4. Monitoring and Control of Water Distribution Systems

The two significant issues Madinah Province in Saudi Arabia faces when managing water resources are water shortage and adopting more effective and sustainable water management techniques. A key component of water management is monitoring and managing water distribution systems. Smart systems are being investigated to increase water distribution’s precision, efficacy, and cost-effectiveness (

Table 2. Water distribution and management in the Madinah region [10].

Category	Statistics
Water demand	Average daily water demand: 231,000 m3/day
	Projected water demand by 2040: 356,000 m3/day
Chlorination	Percentage of water treatment plants using chlorination: 100%
Filtration	Percentage of water treatment plants using sand filtration: 70%
Requirements	Capital investment required for water infrastructure development: $1.5 billion
	Estimated operational expenses for water infrastructure: $100 million/year
Availability	Percentage of the population in the region with access to potable water: 100%
Cost	The average cost of water supply: $0.5/m3
	The average cost of wastewater treatment: $0.3/m3
	The estimated cost of implementing a smart system for water distribution management is $10 to $14 million

). IoT, machine learning, and AI-based systems are all examples of smart systems that may distribute water in Madinah Province. These systems can monitor and manage water distribution networks in real-time, facilitating better and more efficient water management. To improve water distribution and spot leaks or other abnormalities, IoT-based systems, for instance, can employ sensors to gather data on water use, pressure, and flow rates [18,19].

Machine learning-based systems may use historical data to create prediction models for water demand, allowing for more precise forecasts and distribution. AI-based systems may use advanced analytics to optimize water distribution, lower water loss, and boost energy effectiveness. Predictive maintenance, which may assist in spotting possible faults before they become serious problems and lower maintenance costs, is another capability of these smart systems. However, there are specific difficulties in installing intelligent water distribution systems in Madinah Province. These include challenges with interoperability, data security and privacy, and the requirement for qualified employees to run and maintain the systems [20,21].

These systems can be expensive to construct, and stakeholders used to conventional water management practices may resist change. Despite these difficulties, the distribution of water using smart systems in Madinah Province can enhance water resource management, decrease water loss, and encourage sustainability. Smart solutions can assist in addressing the complex issues of water management in the area and contribute to the long-term economic and social development of Madinah Province by utilizing cutting-edge technology and analytics [22,23].

5. Smart Systems for Water Distribution

In Madinah Province, “smart systems” for water distribution combine cutting-edge technology such as IoT, machine learning, and AI to enable in-the-moment network monitoring and management. These systems are made to increase the region’s water resources sustainability, decrease water loss and waste, and increase the efficiency and accuracy of water distribution. Water use, pressure, and flow rate data may be gathered, processed, and analyzed using a range of sensors and data analytics tools by smart water distribution systems. These data can forecast and control water consumption, identify leaks and other irregularities, and improve water distribution in real-time. For instance, sensors may be everywhere throughout the water distribution network to gather information on water use, pressure, and flow rates. This information can then be evaluated in real-time to find leaks or other problems that could impair water distribution [24,25]. Frikha et al., in [26], addressed the limitations of IoT, such as security and data reliability. This study presents a new platform that combines artificial intelligence and smart contracts to monitor and track water consumption in Tunisia, providing a secure multiservice solution for water management. Blankson and Chattamvelli addressed in [27] that the integration of cutting-edge technologies such as Blockchain, IoT, DSS, and AI into intelligent water monitoring systems has enabled more efficient resource utilization and better decision-making.

Water managers may plan and improve water distribution using machine learning techniques to create predicted models for water demand using historical data. AI-based systems may use advanced analytics to improve water distribution, lower water loss, and offer water managers decision-support capabilities to help them manage water resources more effectively. By lowering energy consumption, promoting water conservation, and improving waste management practices, implementing smart water distribution systems in Madinah Province can also aid in promoting sustainability. For instance, smart systems may pinpoint regions with high water usage, resulting in more focused conservation efforts. Additionally, by enabling predictive maintenance, smart systems might lessen the need for expensive replacements and repairs over time. Overall, implementing smart water distribution systems in Madinah Province is a positive step toward increasing the effectiveness and sustainability of the area’s water resource management [28,29,30].

6. Water Conservation and per Capita Demand

In Madinah Province, managing trash and conserving water are essential to sustainable water resource management. Due to the area’s arid climate and limited water resources, reducing water waste and increasing water consumption efficiency is imperative to guarantee a consistent and sustainable water supply for current and future generations.

Proper water usage techniques and technologies must be promoted to save water. Utilizing low-flow faucets, showerheads, and toilets, as well as installing effective irrigation systems and landscaping techniques, are a few examples of what this might entail. Public education and communication activities may also be used in water conservation efforts to increase knowledge of the value of water conservation and promote behavioral change [31]. However, waste management entails properly handling and getting rid of wastewater and other water-related pollutants. In Madinah Province, centralized treatment facilities are often used to treat wastewater before it is released into the environment. Effective waste management techniques can assist in lessening the adverse effects of wastewater discharges on the environment and guarantee that wastewater is sufficiently cleaned before being discharged into the environment [32].

Smart systems can support waste management and water conservation in Madinah Province in addition to these actions. One method of identifying locations of high-water usage or leakage is through the real-time monitoring and management of water distribution networks, which enables more focused conservation measures. Similarly, smart systems may aid in optimizing wastewater treatment procedures, reducing energy use, and increasing treatment plant effectiveness. Overall, a thorough strategy for managing the province of Madinah’s water resources must incorporate initiatives to encourage water conservation and waste management. Reducing water waste, promoting sustainability, and guaranteeing a consistent water supply for future generations are all attainable by deploying smart technologies and adopting efficient water usage practices [33].

The water used per person in a city can vary based on several variables, including climate, population density, and lifestyle. However, the World Health Organization (WHO) [34] states that at least 50 L per person per day are needed to support basic human requirements, including drinking, cooking, and sanitation. In Saudi Arabia, houses typically consume 200–300 L of water per person daily, with the per capita demand for water consumption being greater (refer to

Table 3. Per capita demand for water use in a city [34,35,38].

Type of Water Use	Per Capita Demand for Water Use
Basic human needs (Drinking, cooking, sanitation)	Minimum of 50 L per capita per day
Household water use (Saudi Arabia)	200–300 L per capita per day
Household water use (Typical EU counties for example)	100–150 L per capita per day
Commercial water use	Varies widely depending on the type of activity and level of water efficiency
Industrial water use
Agricultural water use

) [35], which is quite alarming. This covers home water used for cleaning dishes, laundry, and showering. In other countries such as Europe, there has been a great decline of waster consumptions as families typically consume 100–150 liters of water per person per day, less than the global average. The entire demand for water in a city might come from residential consumption and other associated requirements, including commercial, industrial, and agricultural water use. Depending on the kind of activity and the degree of water efficiency, the per capita demand for water consumption in different industries might vary considerably. Planning for sustainable water management methods requires considering local circumstances and the kind of water consumption since the per capita demand for water use in a city can vary significantly based on several factors [36,37].

The sustainable management of water resources in Madinah Province depends on the per capita demand for water. Because of the region’s dry environment, scarce water supplies, and expanding population, controlling water demand and encouraging effective water use habits is crucial. The average quantity of water a person uses over a specific time is the per capita demand for water consumption. Water managers can pinpoint locations with excessive water consumption and create specialized conservation strategies to reduce water wastage by assessing per capita demand. Promoting water-efficient technologies, creating water-efficient technologies, and using intelligent systems to monitor and manage water distribution networks are some strategies that may be used in Madinah Province to manage per capita water demand. By taking these steps, the Province of Madinah may lessen water waste and guarantee a dependable and sustainable water supply for the present and future generations.

These data give an overview of several important water distribution and management factors in the Madinah Munawara area, such as water demand, treatment methods, infrastructure needs, accessibility, and cost. Remembering that these numbers might change based on the place, time, and other circumstances is crucial.

7. Desalination Plants in Saudi Arabia

Desalination is often more expensive than other water sources, such as groundwater or surface water. Therefore, it is an optimum choice in locations lacking alternative water sources, such as Saudi Arabia. It is important to note that the price of desalinated water per cubic meter can vary considerably depending on several variables, including the location of the plant, the technology employed, the energy source, and the cost of labor and supplies.

Depending on the source, the data in

Table 4. Statistics on the water desalination industry by country (approximate values) [39,40].

Country	Number of Plants	Total Capacity (m3/day)	% of Water Supply	Avg. Cost per m3	* Desalination Technology	Energy Consumption per m3 (kWh/m3)	CO2 Emissions per m3 (kg CO2/m3)
Saudi Arabia	Over 50	6.6 million	Around 70%	$0.53	MSF and RO	2.5–3	1.5–2.5
UAE	Over 40	2.5 million	Around 90%	$0.58–1.00	RO	3–5	2–3
USA	Over 300	2.1 million	Less than 1%	$0.80–1.50	RO	2–3	0.5–1.5
Spain	Over 900	1.3 million	Less than 1%	$0.70–1.20	RO	2–5	1–3
China	Over 40	1 million	Less than 1%	$0.70–1.00	MSF and RO	3–5	2–3

* Multi-Stage Flash (MSF) and Reverse Osmosis (RO).

may differ as desalination’s price and energy usage can also change based on the technology employed, the facility’s location, and how much energy is priced.

Figure 3 displays the estimated global desalination plant capacity, expressed in million cubic meters per day. With a capacity of almost 4 million cubic meters per day, Saudi Arabia has the highest capacity, followed by the United Arab Emirates, with 2.5 million cubic meters per day. The capacity of the United States is 2.1 million cubic meters per day. The daily capabilities of Spain and China are 1.3 million cubic meters and one million cubic meters, respectively. Many nations with scarce freshwater resources depend on desalination facilities to supply their water needs, and the sector is expanding internationally. The environmental effects of expanded desalination capacity should be examined, as desalination is energy-intensive. As of 2021, Saudi Arabia generates approximately 4 million cubic meters of desalinated water per day (m³/day), making it the largest producer in the world (refer to

Table 5. Water desalination industry in Saudi Arabia [42,43].

Indicator	Value
Number of Desalination Plants	Over 50
Total Capacity of Desalination Plants (m3/day)	Approximately 6.6 million
Percentage of Water Supply from Desalination	Around 25%
Largest Desalination Plant	Ras Al Khair (1,036,000 m3/day)
Cost of Ras Al Khair Desalination Plant	$7.2 billion
Average Cost per m3 of Desalinated Water	$0.53
Largest Desalination Company	Saline Water Conversion Corporation (SWCC)
SWCC’s Share of Total Desalination Capacity	Over 70%
Energy Consumption per m3 of Desalinated Water	2.7 kWh/m3 (large systems) 2.27 kWh/m3 (small stations)
CO2 Emissions per m3 of Desalinated Water	13 million metric tons/year (Carbon emission reduction)

). Due to its scarcity of freshwater resources and dry environment, the country has significantly invested in desalination technologies [41].

The Ras Al Khair desalination plant, with a capacity of 1,036,000 m³/day, was added to Saudi Arabia’s desalination infrastructure in 2014. Once operational, the Yanbu-3 desalination plant, with a 550,000 m³/day capacity commissioned, increased the country’s desalination capability even further.

Table 6. Some of the largest desalination plants in Saudi Arabia [44,45,46].

Desalination Plant	Location	Capacity (m3/day)	Capacity (MGD)	Year Built	Cost (USD)	Cost per m3	Areas/Zones Supplied
Shuaibah	Jeddah	880,000	232.5	2005	$1.2 billion	$0.53	Jeddah, Mecca, Taif, and Al Baha regions
Ras Al Khair	Jubail	1,036,000	273.5	2014	$7.2 billion	$0.53	Eastern and Central regions
Jubail-2	Jubail	1,170,000	309	2015	$3 billion	$0.53	Eastern and Central regions
Yanbu-3	Yanbu	550,000	145.3	2016	$1.7 billion	$0.55	Yanbu Industrial City
Al Khobar	Al Khobar	210,000	55.5	2016	$530 million	$0.59	Al Khobar and neighboring areas
Jeddah-3	Jeddah	240,000	63.4	2018	$530 million	$0.63	Jeddah and neighboring areas
Rabigh-3	Rabigh	600,000	158.5	2020	$1.5 billion	$0.53	Rabigh and neighboring areas

Note: MGD refers to million gallons per day.

shows only a few major locations each plant serves, not an exhaustive list of all the places and zones they supply. There may be more extensive distribution networks for each plant than is shown here.

Figure 4 shows data on Saudi Arabia’s total daily desalination plant capacity, expressed in cubic meters. Jubail is home to the largest desalination facility in the country, with a daily capacity of more than 1 million cubic meters. Jeddah, Yanbu, and Rabigh also have some of the largest desalination facilities. Due to Saudi Arabia’s limited freshwater resources, the desalination sector is essential for satisfying the country’s water demand. The government keeps investing in desalination to deliver a steady drinkable water supply to its expanding population.

It is also important to remember that desalination is costly and energy-intensive, even if it gives the nation a vital water source. The Saudi government is looking at other water sources, such as wastewater reuse and groundwater management, to lessen its dependency on desalination due to the high expense of desalination and environmental concerns over the dumping of brine and other waste products into the sea.

8. Potential Improvements in Losses and Treatment

Table 7. Potential improvements [47].

Category	Potential Improvement in Statistics
Water wastage	Reduction in water loss due to leaks and other sources of waste: up to 30%
	Reduction in unaccounted-for water (UFW) in the distribution network: up to 20%
Wastewater treatment	Increase in the efficiency of wastewater treatment processes: up to 15%
	Reduction in the discharge of untreated wastewater into the environment: up to 90%
Water quality	Improvement in water quality through real-time monitoring and control of water distribution processes
Energy consumption	Reduction in energy consumption through the optimization of water distribution processes: up to 10%

outlines data on water waste and treatment that may be improved if the planned smart system for managing water distribution in the Madinah Munawara area is implemented. These enhancements are founded on the prospective advantages of utilizing a smart system for managing water distribution, which may aid in identifying and reducing water waste, maximizing water use, and raising water treatment procedures’ effectiveness. Several variables may affect the actual benefits, including the kind of water consumption, the environment, and the degree of smart system implementation.

Effective water management is essential for this priceless natural resource to be used sustainably. Several tactics may be used to optimize water supply, decrease water demand and waste, and boost the effectiveness of water treatment procedures. One noteworthy tactic is regularly examining and maintaining the water distribution network to find and fix leaks. Leaks and other irregularities in the system may be found and reported to operators using cutting-edge technology such as sensors and machine learning-based systems. Water waste may be further decreased by using supply management methods such as rainwater collection and wastewater reuse and demand management strategies such as water price legislation and public awareness efforts on water conservation. Reducing the release of untreated wastewater into the environment may also be accomplished by improving wastewater treatment procedures using cutting-edge technology such as membrane filtration and reverse osmosis. Water use may be optimized and water waste reduced by using a smart system for managing water distribution that uses cutting-edge technology such as IoT and AI-based systems. Finally, working with stakeholders such as water consumers, regulators, and water distribution firms may assist in identifying and addressing the water management difficulties in the area, supporting sustainable water management practices and lowering water waste. A complete strategy considering sustainable water management’s social, economic, and environmental elements is necessary to minimize water waste, improve wastewater treatment, and optimize water distribution procedures [48].

As mentioned in

Table 8. Government policies and industrial involvement [49].

Category	Barcelona	Madrid	Cape Town	Singapore	Madinah Munawara
Government policies	Water pricing policies, promotion of water-efficient technologies and practices		Water restrictions, promotion of water-efficient technologies and practices	Investment in water infrastructure, promotion of water-efficient technologies and practices	Investment in water infrastructure, promotion of water-efficient technologies and practices
Industry involvement	Collaboration with industries to reduce water usage, use of advanced technologies such as smart water management systems				Collaboration with water distribution companies, use of advanced technologies such as smart water management systems

, Cape Town stands apart regarding government policy for its water limitations and advocacy of water-efficient techniques and technology. Barcelona and Madrid, meanwhile, have water price regulations and advocate for water-saving methods and technology. Both Madinah Munawara and Singapore have invested in water infrastructure and advocated for water-saving methods of operation. Each of the five cities works with water distribution firms and utilizes cutting-edge technology, such as smart water management systems. Cape Town and Madinah Munawara work with businesses to reduce water use.

Due to its limited water supplies, Barcelona, a heavily populated coastal city in Spain, has been experiencing a water shortage. The city has implemented several sustainable water management techniques to address this problem. Water demand management is one of these tactics, which includes putting in place water price regulations that promote conservation and promoting water-efficient products and procedures. The city has also created alternative water sources, including seawater desalination and rainwater harvesting. Its largest seawater desalination plant can produce up to 200,000 cubic meters of water per day. The city has also developed cutting-edge wastewater treatment techniques and recycled processed wastewater for industrial and non-potable uses, including irrigation and toilet flushing. The city has also implemented a smart water management system that monitors and controls water distribution, finds leaks and other causes of water loss, and optimizes water consumption. Despite a growing population, Barcelona has managed to reduce water use by 25% over the past two decades by implementing these techniques. It has also decreased its reliance on outside water sources and improved the effectiveness of its water distribution system.

In conclusion, the Barcelona case study illustrates how a thorough strategy for sustainable water management that considers water management’s social, economic, and environmental components may aid in addressing water shortages and promoting sustainable water use habits.

With the help of

Table 9. Comparing some key figures in some cities worldwide related to water management [19].

Category	Barcelona	Madrid	Cape Town	Singapore	Madinah Munawara
Population (millions)	1.6	3.3	4.0	5.7	1.2
Water demand (m3/day)	400,000	870,000	605,000	430,000	231,000
Percentage of the population with access to potable water	100%	100%	100%	100%	100%
Water loss due to leaks and other sources of waste	25% reduction achieved	20% reduction targeted	15% reduction achieved	5% reduction achieved	Up to 30% reduction targeted
Wastewater treatment efficiency	Up to 99%	Up to 95%	Up to 95%	Up to 95%	Up to 85%
Cost of water supply ($/m3)	0.6	0.5	1.1	0.4	0.5
Cost of wastewater treatment ($/m3)	0.3	0.3	0.6	0.3	0.3

, a comparison is made as to how water is managed in Barcelona, Madrid, Madinah Munawara, Cape Town, and Singapore. Additional data on water consumption, wastewater treatment effectiveness, water supply, wastewater treatment costs, government regulations, and business engagement in water management are included in the table. The policies and practices of governments and industry may significantly contribute to promoting sustainable water management practices. Thus, it is vital to remember that these numbers may change based on the precise place, time, and other circumstances.

The National Water Company (NWC), the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture (MEWA), the Madinah Water and Sewage Authority (MOWASA), and the Saudi Water Partnership Company (SWPC) are government organizations. They provide reports that contain comprehensive information about Madinah’s water management techniques. Reports and research papers, in addition to these governmental organizations, offer comprehensive details on Madinah’s water management procedures. Several instances include the MEWA paper “Water Resources Management in Saudi Arabia”, which summarizes the country’s water resources and management methods, including those used in Madinah. A study on “Water Management in the Middle East and North Africa”—This World Bank paper offers a detailed examination of the potential problems in the region’s water management, particularly those in Saudi Arabia and Madinah. The International Water Association’s paper “Smart Water Management in the Middle East and North Africa” thoroughly reviews the most current methods and technology for smart water management, including those used in Saudi Arabia and Madinah.

9. Transmission Overview of Saudi Arabia

The Saudi Arabian water transmission network, which comprises several interconnected pipes, reservoirs, and pumping stations, is managed by the Saline Water Conversion Corporation (SWCC) [16,41]. With pipes varying in diameter from 8 to 80 inches, the transmission network is enormous, spanning around 7175 km (4459 miles). There are 56 pumping stations strategically placed throughout the network to guarantee steady water flow across long distances and varied terrain. These pumping facilities aid in maintaining water pressure and guarantee that water reaches its destination. Additionally, the system has 285 storage tanks with a combined storage capacity of 12.6 million cubic meters (m³).

Delivering water from desalination plants to cities and towns nationwide depends on the water transmission infrastructure. Even in places with a high demand for water or challenging terrain, the system helps to guarantee that water is transported effectively and consistently. The vast transmission network’s pipelines span a large region with different diameters and functions. As given in

Table 10. General information on the water transmission network in Saudi Arabia [16,41].

Region	Length of Pipes (km)	Diameter of Pipes (Inches)	Cities/Towns Served	Purpose
Central	2800	8–60	Riyadh, Buraydah, Al-Kharj, and others	Drinking, domestic, and agricultural
Eastern	1800	8–80	Dammam, Al-Khobar, Jubail, and others
Western	2000	8–72	Jeddah, Mecca, Taif, and others
Southern	1575	8–60	Abha, Khamis Mushait, Najran, and others

, the transmission network in KSA comprises several significant systems, including the Central, Eastern, Western, and Southern areas, intended to transport water to different regions of the nation. Depending on the water demand and transmission distance, the network’s pipelines range in diameter from 8 to 80 inches. Delivering potable water from desalination plants to cities and villages around the country is the primary goal of the water transmission network. Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam are some of the bigger cities the network serves. In some regions, water is used to irrigate agricultural land and for drinking and household reasons. The transmission network comprises several sizable storage tanks, pipelines, and pumping stations, guaranteeing a steady water supply to the populace. The network is continuously updated to satisfy the country’s rising water demand.

The Central, Eastern, Western, and Southern areas of Saudi Arabia are represented in Figure 5, along with the length of the pipes in kilometers. With 2800 km, the pipeline network in the Central area is the longest. In contrast, the Eastern area has an 1800 km network. Pipeline networks in the Western and Southern regions total 2000 km and 1575 km, respectively. These pipes are essential for transferring potable water from desalination facilities to towns and cities nationwide. The water demand and transmission distance determine the length of pipelines in each region. The pipeline networks are continuously improved and extended to accommodate the country’s rising water demand. There could be more than the ones mentioned below, including more pipelines, pumping stations, and storage tanks. The water supply use may also change based on location and demand, and pipeline sizes may differ by area.

10. Automated Frameworks

The estimated 1.3 million-person Madinah City, which spans 589 km², might benefit from an automated system for effective water management. A system such as this might support sustainable water consumption habits and assist in managing the city’s limited water supplies.

Table 11. Automated frameworks for efficient water management adopted by some cities [50,51,52,53,54,55,56,57].

City	Cost (USD)	Size (km²)	Beneficiaries
Barcelona, Spain [50,51,52,53]	24 million	162	5 million
Singapore	12 million	728	5.7 million
Las Vegas, USA	12 million	352	2.2 million
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia	20 million	1554	7.6 million
Melbourne, Australia [54,55,56,57]	16 million	9990	5 million
Madinah, Saudi Arabia (estimated)	10–20 million	Approx 589	Approx 1.3 million

shows the approximate cost, the region’s size, and the beneficiaries of automated frameworks for efficient water management installed in a few cities. Although the precise cost of putting such a framework in place in Madinah city would depend on several variables, such as the system’s unique design, location, and execution, it is predicted that it may range between 10 and 20 million USD. An adequate water management framework might increase the accuracy and speed of water consumption monitoring, decrease water losses from leaks, and give real-time insights into water usage trends by leveraging smart technologies such as sensors, data analytics, and automated control systems. These advantages may enhance water conservation, lower energy costs, and boost the water supply’s resilience for the city, making it more sustainable and habitable for its citizens.

Because the precise cost, size, and beneficiaries of an automated framework for efficient water management in Madinah City would depend on several factors, including the specific design, location, and implementation of the system, be aware that the estimates for Madinah City are based on general information and should be treated as approximations.

The main components of IoT-based smart water management systems are leak detection, automatic control, predictive analytics, and remote monitoring, as shown in Figure 5. IoT sensors and devices are used to monitor water use, quality, and other characteristics remotely. Data received by IoT sensors were analyzed via predictive analytics. It generates projections regarding trends in water usage as well as potential issues. IoT-based solutions may be created to automatically regulate the supply and distribution of water based on real-time data and predictive analytics. By locating leaks in water pipes and other infrastructure, IoT sensors are utilized for leak detection, enabling quick repairs and reducing water wastage. IoT-based smart water management systems provide the tools for data visualization and water quality monitoring in addition to the capabilities. IoT devices keep track of water quality in real-time to ensure it satisfies safety standards and is fit for consumption. Dashboards and other visualizations are commonly used in data visualization to help consumers easily understand and assess data on water use. IoT-based smart water management solutions assist in boosting water efficiency while ensuring that the water is safe and of the highest possible quality. All these factors, as well as the practicability of the proposed framework, are considered in the analysis of the existing water system. Several tests, including those for water quality, water flow, sensors, and feasibility, are part of the project to help obtain this goal.

As seen in Figure 6, IoT-based smart water management systems also have data visualization and functionality for water quality monitoring. IoT devices keep track of water quality in real-time to ensure it satisfies safety standards and is fit for consumption. Data visualizations commonly include dashboards and other tools that make it simple for users to understand and assess information on water consumption. IoT-based smart water management solutions reduce waste and maximize water efficiency while ensuring water is of the highest quality and conforms with safety rules.

These goals may be achieved by IoT-based smart water management systems using various equations often used in water management. For instance, the water balance of the Madinah water system may be determined using the water balance Equation (1), which considers elements including precipitation, evapotranspiration, runoff, and changes in storage. Utilizing this knowledge would help minimize waste and use water more efficiently.

$$P-ET-Q=S$$

(1)

The water flow rate via the pipes in the water system in Madinah may be calculated using the pipe flow Equation (2). The system can identify leaks and other problems by utilizing IoT sensors to monitor flow rates in real time, and it can then take corrective action to reduce water wastage.

$$Q=A\times V$$

(2)

The Madinah water system’s demand may be calculated using Equation (3), which considers potential evapotranspiration, irrigated field area, and crop coefficient. Effective water distribution and optimization of water use might be achieved using this knowledge.

$$D=P\times A\times K_c$$

(3)

The water quality index (WQI) of samples obtained from the Madinah water system may be calculated using the water quality index Equation (4). The system can instantly identify any problems with water quality and take remedial action to guarantee that the water complies with safety regulations by monitoring water quality in real time using IoT sensors.

$$WQI = \Sigma \left(W_i\times S_i\right)$$

(4)

The equations are used for IoT-based smart water management systems to enhance their efficacy and efficiency, decrease water waste, and guarantee that the water is high-quality and complies with safety regulations.

The numbers mentioned are approximations based on freely accessible sources, as shown in Figure 7. Depending on the system’s unique design, location, and execution, the cost, scale, and beneficiaries of automated frameworks for effective water management vary considerably [58,59,60].

In numerous locations, including Madinah City, the figures compare the expected costs, sizes (refer to Figure 8), and benefits of automated systems for effective water management. Several variables, such as the size of the city, the number of beneficiaries, and the precise design and execution of the system, affect the cost of establishing an automated framework for effective water management [61,62,63]. Comparable to the anticipated prices for the other cities on the list, Madinah City’s cost is between 10 to 20 million USD. The size of the city is another crucial element since it influences the infrastructure needed to put the system in place. Compared to other cities, Madinah is tiny, with a total area of about 589 km². Finally, it is essential to consider the city’s population when calculating the costs and advantages of an automated water management system. With an estimated 1.3 million residents, Madinah is larger than some other cities on the list, such as Riyadh and Barcelona, but smaller than others, such as Las Vegas. Several aspects must be considered when calculating the costs and advantages of an automated framework for effective water management in Madinah City. [64,65]. The advantages and disadvantages of an automated system are shown in

Table 12. Pros and cons of an automated framework.

Pros

1. Improved data accuracy and real-time monitoring

2. Better decision-making through predictive analytics

3. Increased efficiency and productivity

Cons

1. High initial cost of implementation

2. Potential for system failure or malfunction

3. Risk of a data breach or cyber attack

for the NWC projects in Saudi Arabia’s Madinah Province [66].

The National Water Company (NWC)’s activities under the National Transformation Program (NTP) aim to enhance Saudi Arabia’s water infrastructure and services. The business is engaged in several projects to enhance water management. They aim to improve subsurface aquifers, strategic reservoir capacity, network losses, and customer service while connecting more homes to drinking water systems through digital technology. The NWC is also boosting the capacity of wastewater treatment facilities, increasing the reuse of treated sewage effluent, collaborating with the commercial sector, and establishing public awareness programs to promote water conservation. These programs seek to enhance Saudi Arabia’s water management and conservation efforts and guarantee future generations’ sustainable access to this essential resource. The impact of the automated framework on these initiatives in the short and long term is shown in

Table 13. Short-term and long-term impact of an automated framework.

Impact	Short-Term	Long-Term
Improved tracking of water usage and loss	Short-term reduced water wastage and increased efficiency	Improved water resource management and conservation for sustainability
Reduced water wastage and increased efficiency	Improved customer satisfaction and trust
Enhanced ability to identify and rectify system inefficiencies	Improved water quality and safety

.

Overall, there are many potential advantages to using an automated framework to monitor and manage NWC projects in Madinah Province, including higher data accuracy, real-time monitoring, and better decision-making using predictive analytics. Possible drawbacks include the high cost of installation initially, system failure or malfunction, and data leaks or cyberattacks. The short-term benefits of such a structure might include improved water use and loss monitoring, reduced water waste, and enhanced ability to spot and fix system inefficiencies. The budget for this project is set at $2 million. Positive public health outcomes, more community involvement, and improved management of water resources are all possible long-term impacts. In general, such a setup works well. However, it would require frequent maintenance and improvements to ensure the system’s ongoing usefulness and safety.

11. Proposed Trusted and Secure Networking

11.1. Water Distribution Network

Water quality monitoring, particularly in smart agriculture, necessitates secure data transmission for effective risk analysis. The SWAM project focuses on ensuring data security through authenticated devices and preventing erroneous measurements, emphasizing the need for robust security measures at all IoT levels [67]. IoT sensors enable real-time monitoring and data reporting in urban water management, collecting and transmitting data on parameters such as water pressure, flow rates, and water quality. Blockchain technology ensures data authenticity and integrity by storing the sensor data in a decentralized and tamper-resistant manner. Each data block is linked to the previous block, making it computationally infeasible to alter the data without detection. The integration of IoT sensors, blockchain, and a water distribution dashboard allows for accurate decision-making, proactive maintenance, and efficient water leakage detection, ultimately optimizing water distribution networks in urban areas.

Invasive and non-invasive approaches are widely categorized in the literature on smart water pipe leakage-detecting systems. Utilizing invasive methods, IoT sensors for flow, pressure, optical, and hydrophones are installed within the water pipelines. Installing sensors such as listing sticks, vibration sensors, GPR, and IR cameras outside of the water pipelines is a non-invasive approach, on the other hand. These techniques use water pressure and the vibration detection theory to find pipe breaches.

While most research focuses on leakage detection, the problem of secure sensor data reporting is not addressed by any of the strategies presented in the literature. As a result, it is difficult to guarantee with a high degree of confidence that the information obtained about the leak is genuine and that the implanted sensors are reliable and do not purposefully raise false alarms. It is simple for a non-invasive sensor to produce false alarms and go unnoticed in a complicated water distribution network, jeopardizing the data’s integrity.

To solve this problem, we proposed a framework for reliable and secure water pipe leak detection that guarantees the accuracy and integrity of sensor data. As shown in Figure 9, each device is registered with a distant trusted network, and any data received from a device installed on a real water distribution network is confirmed using the trusted network. The dashboard then receives the data and reports the status of the water flow and leaks. This method may also be applied to consumer reporting of water usage, where the meter sends usage data to the trusted network automatically, which then validates it and connects it to the dashboard of the water provider.

A strong and trustworthy water leakage detection system that can identify false alarms and guarantee that our framework provides data integrity. Our architecture can avoid the danger of rogue devices creating false alarms and jeopardizing the system’s accuracy by using a trustworthy network and checking the data at each stage.

To ensure the data’s validity and integrity, the suggested framework for effective water management and leakage detection in urban areas calls for storing each IoT device’s data on a reliable network. The leakage detection devices may communicate with one another and share data over this network, coordinating and improving their detecting capacities. The framework also has a method for identifying and eliminating any information a malicious device provides that can jeopardize the system’s correctness and dependability. When this occurs, a report or alert is transmitted to the authorization department, physically examining the device at the designated location to determine its state. This strategy ensures that only valid and trustworthy data are utilized for leak detection and water management, increasing the system’s efficacy and efficiency. The physical smart water distribution network, which consists of water distribution pipes installed with dependable client sensors, is also depicted in Figure 9. These sensors report any leakage warnings or flow data to the Middleware Blockchain network, where they are processed and shown on the Smart Water Dashboard. The image shows how the Middleware Blockchain network and Smart Water Dashboard collaborate to enable real-time monitoring and administration of water distribution networks, allowing water distribution businesses to improve their procedures and decrease water loss [68].

11.2. Technical Overview of the Proposed System

Using blockchain technologies, specifically with Hyperledger Fabric, adds an extra layer of trust and security. In the context of water leakage detection, IoT devices can capture and transmit data about possible leakages to a decentralized network where this information is verified and stored securely. IoT devices, specifically water leakage detectors, can have the necessary software to communicate with the blockchain network. These devices will make API calls to the smart contract deployed on the Hyperledger Fabric. Figure 10 shows the sequence diagram explaining the process of Device Authentication and Interactions with the Blockchain API.

Before an IoT device can report any data to the blockchain, the device first undergoes an authentication process. Each IoT device is given a unique cryptographic identity, typically a digital certificate or private/public key pair. When the device wishes to communicate with the smart contract, it sends a signed transaction using its private key.

The network nodes participating in the Hyperledger Fabric will then verify the transaction signature using the device’s public key, ensuring that the data come from a trusted source. The IoT device can send data concerning water leakage (such as location, magnitude, and timestamp) to the smart contract. This smart contract is programmed to execute specific logic upon receiving data. For instance, it might notify concerned authorities or stakeholders when leakage data surpass certain thresholds. Once the contract logic is executed, the data, along with any resulting actions, are appended to the blockchain. This ensures an immutable record of all leakages detected by the IoT device.

A mathematical formal model helps abstract the system and verify its integrity and correctness. Below is a simplistic mathematical model for the IoT-blockchain integration for water leakage detection. Below is a mathematical formal model, including smart contract API functions.

Definitions:

• D: Set of all IoT devices.
• T: Timestamp when data are generated.
• L: Water leakage data.
• S: Signature generated using the IoT device’s private key.
• K: Public key corresponding to the IoT device.
• A: Set of all authorities to be notified.
• B: Blockchain state.

Smart Contract API Functions:

• ‘authenticateDevice(d, s, k, t)’: Validates the authenticity of device (d) using signature ( s ), public key ( k ), and timestamp (t). Returns true if authenticated, false otherwise.
• ‘reportLeakageData(l, t)’: Stores leakage data (l) at timestamp (t) into the blockchain.
• ‘notifyAuthorities(a, l, t)’: Sends a notification to authority (a) regarding leakage data (l) at timestamp (t).

Operations:

For each device d in D:

• The device generates leakage data l at timestamp t.
• The device generates a signature s = Sign (d, l, t) using its private key.
• The device sends (l, s, t) to the smart contract on the blockchain.

Inside the Smart Contract:

• For each received (l, s, t) from a device d:
  • Call the authentication function:
    • ‘authenticateDevice (d, s, K_d, t)’

      −

      If true (authenticated), proceed.

      −

      Else, discard l and exit.

  • Store l in the blockchain:
    • ‘reportLeakageData (l, t)’
  • Notify the concerned authorities:
    • For each authority a in A:
    • ‘notifyAuthorities (a, l, t)’

The above mathematical model formally represents the interaction between IoT devices and a blockchain network for water leakage detection and reporting. In this model:

−

D represents an IoT device.

−

A signifies the act of device authentication, where each device is verified for its integrity and trustworthiness before being allowed to report leakage data.

−

R stands for the reporting mechanism through which a device, once authenticated, submits water leakage information to the network.

−

T symbolizes a timestamp, ensuring that each report is uniquely identifiable based on the time of submission.

−

S is the cryptographic signature the IoT device generates, further strengthening the device’s credibility and the data authenticity.

−

M encompasses the complete process of the device first authenticating itself and then reporting the leakage data, all while maintaining a temporal record.

This model systematically captures the steps and parameters involved in the process, providing a structured approach to understanding and analyzing the secure reporting of water leakage data from IoT devices to a blockchain network.

12. Implementation

Testbed Environment

Several essential nodes and components play distinct roles in a Hyperledger Fabric testbed environment designed to run our water leakage detection algorithm. At the heart of the network is the Ordering Service, commonly referred to as the Orderer. This component ensures blockchain consistency and is pivotal for block creation. While real-world applications typically employ multiple orderers to establish consensus, a testbed can often function with just one.

Next, we have Peer Nodes, the workhorses that maintain the ledger and house the smart contracts. They execute and endorse transactions. There are two variants: the Endorsing Peers, which run transactions per the defined chaincode and give them their seal of approval, and the Committing Peers that take charge of adding endorsed transactions to the ledger. Ensuring the credibility of identities within the network, the Certificate Authority (CA) issues and manages digital certificates, thus underpinning the network’s trust framework.

Channels, representing private communication pathways, are crucial for transaction confidentiality within specified network members. They help ensure that data related to our leakage detection stays secure and confined to relevant parties. Accompanying this setup is either CouchDB or LevelDB, serving as the state database for peers, with the choice often hinging on whether complex JSON data queries are anticipated.

Interfacing with this environment, Client Applications act as bridges, invoking chaincodes and facilitating IoT device interactions with the blockchain. Our leakage detection algorithm, in the guise of a chaincode, would be deployed here, running within isolated Docker containers for optimum security. The rules governing identity validation are established by the Membership Service Provider (MSP). In essence, it is the gatekeeper, defining authentication standards for every user and node. And for those keen on a hands-on approach, tools such as the CLI (Command Line Interface) or SDKs prove invaluable, especially during the phases of development and intricate testing.

When conceptualizing this setup, it is viable to co-locate several components on a single machine in a testbed environment using Docker. However, for scalable production scenarios, a more distributed approach, spanning multiple machines or cloud instances, would be more suitable.

The provided Go code represents a smart contract for a Hyperledger Fabric network tailored for water leakage detection. At its core, the ‘LeakageContract’ struct contains methods that facilitate interactions with the ledger. The ‘InitLedger‘ function can be used for initial setups, such as registering trusted devices. The ‘AuthenticateDevice’ method is designed to validate the authenticity of IoT devices by checking a signature (although the example uses a simplistic hash method). Once authenticated, the ‘ReportLeakageData’ function allows IoT devices to report and store water leakage data, which includes the device ID, data, and timestamp, onto the blockchain ledger. Finally, there is a mock-up ‘NotifyAuthorities’ function that, in a real-world scenario, would be used to alert the relevant authorities about detected leakages. The main function initializes the smart contract and starts the chaincode, allowing it to be deployed on a Hyperledger Fabric network. Throughout, error handling ensures that any issues in data processing or storage are addressed, and JSON marshalling was used for data serialization.

package main import (   “bytes”   “crypto/sha256”   “encoding/json”   “fmt”   “github.com/hyperledger/fabric-contract-api-go/contractapi” ) type LeakageContract struct {   contractapi.Contract } type LeakageData struct {   DeviceID string ‘json:“deviceID”’   Data string ‘json:”data”’   Timestamp string ‘json:“timestamp”’   Signature string ‘json:“signature”’ } type AuthResult struct {   Authenticated bool ‘json:“authenticated”’ } func (s *LeakageContract) InitLedger(ctx contractapi.TransactionContextInterface) error { setups.   return nil } func (s *LeakageContract) AuthenticateDevice(ctx contractapi.TransactionContextInterface, deviceID string, data string, timestamp string, signature string) (*AuthResult, error) { // A cryptographic method for authentication.   hashed := sha256.Sum256([]byte(deviceID + data + timestamp))   if bytes.Compare(hashed[:], []byte(signature)) == 0 {      return &AuthResult{Authenticated: true}, nil   }   return &AuthResult{Authenticated: false}, nil } // ReportLeakageData reports and stores the leakage data to the ledger func (s *LeakageContract) ReportLeakageData(ctx contractapi.TransactionContextInterface, deviceID string, data string, timestamp string) error {   leakage:= LeakageData{      DeviceID: deviceID,      Data: data,      Timestamp: timestamp,   }   leakageJSON, err:= json.Marshal(leakage)   if err!= nil {      return err   }   return ctx.GetStub().PutState(deviceID+“-”+timestamp, leakageJSON) } // NotifyAuthorities is a function to represent notifying the concerned authorities func (s *LeakageContract) NotifyAuthorities(ctx contractapi.TransactionContextInterface, authorityID string, deviceID string, data string, timestamp string) error {   // This function will be integrated with external systems to notify relevant authorities.   fmt.Printf(“Notified authority %s about leakage from device %s at %s with data %s\n”, authorityID, deviceID, timestamp, data)  return nil } func main() {   chaincode, err:= contractapi.NewChaincode(new(LeakageContract))   if err!= nil {      fmt.Printf(“Error creating leakage chaincode: %s”, err.Error())      return   }   if err:= chaincode.Start(); err!= nil {      fmt.Printf(“Error starting leakage chaincode: %s”, err.Error())   } }

13. Conclusions

The framework presented for effective water management and leakage detection in urban areas can assist in addressing the issues posed by a lack of available water and inefficient distribution. The framework protects the reliability and integrity of sensor data by utilizing blockchain technology, which enables improved decision-making and resource allocation. The framework can potentially increase the effectiveness of water distribution and leakage detection by facilitating communication and data exchange among sensors and with the dashboard for the water distribution system. It is believed that the proposed framework has the potential to contribute to the sustainability and resilience of urban water systems. This also urges more study and stakeholder collaboration to create and implement similar frameworks in diverse urban situations.