CDA mulls SCADA system to modernise Islamabad’s water supply

ISLAMABAD, Oct 17 (APP):The Capital Development Authority (CDA) is considering introducing a Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system to enable real-time monitoring and automated control of Islamabad’s water supply network.

The proposed system is part of a broader initiative to modernise the capital’s water management infrastructure, improve operational efficiency and identify ways to reduce electricity expenditure, Islamabad Water Agency Director General Sardar Khan Zimri told APP on Saturday.

He said the proposed initiative was being discussed with representatives of the International Finance Corporation (IFC), with a technical and financial assessment planned for around 200 tube wells, 40 overhead water tanks and their associated pumping stations.

The assessment is expected to examine electricity consumption, water pressure, distribution efficiency, operational performance and maintenance costs to identify areas where the existing infrastructure could be improved.

If introduced, the SCADA system would allow operators to monitor water supply operations in real time, identify operational problems and use reliable data to improve the management of the distribution network. Automated controls could also help improve oversight of pumping operations and the efficiency of the water supply system.

The proposed initiative aims to identify technically and financially viable measures to improve the reliability of water supply services, reduce unnecessary electricity expenditure and promote the sustainable use of water resources amid the growing needs of the federal capital.

According to the proposed framework, the initial assessment would be followed by the preparation of technical documentation and financial and administrative feasibility studies.

Subject to the completion of the required assessments, approval by the relevant authorities and compliance with applicable rules and regulations, the CDA may consider an international competitive bidding process for implementation.

The scope of work and responsibilities of the selected company would be determined in accordance with the final contract and approved terms and conditions.

The initiative is being pursued under the leadership of CDA Chairman Sohail Ashraf, with Sardar Khan Zimri overseeing the process at Islamabad Water Agency.

The CDA has not yet announced the estimated cost of introducing the proposed system, the potential savings in electricity expenditure or a time-line for implementation.

The proposed engagement with the IFC is intended to help the authority assess modern water management solutions and identify measures to strengthen the capital’s water supply infrastructure.