HCM City plans to upgrade its water supply system. Photo: capnuocgiadinh.vn

HCM CITY - HCM City is making adjustments to its Water Supply Plan to 2040, with a vision to 2060, to adapt to climate change and maintain local residents' access to clean water.

Numerous water companies in HCM City have joined the project, including Sài Gòn Water Supply Corporation (Sawaco), Thủ Đức Water B.O.O Corporation, Tân Hiệp Water, and Sai Gòn Clean Water Business and Investment Joint Stock Company (SWIC).

Sawaco is making plans to apply hi-tech techniques to freshwater production and supply management models to make use of natural and human resources.

Exploiting other sustainable and safe water sources is also a must to maintain freshwater supply for all residents. Rainwater and brackish water are considered potential alternative sources.

Other water companies will work on sludge treatment plans to find suitable techniques for water supply plants. 

To avoid freshwater losses, water supply plants are asked to carefully keep track of the flow rate at night, change the old pipes and use pressure-reducing valves. 

The tap water leakage rate is expected to be under 18.93 per cent by 2040.

In addition, a free drinking-water system will be piloted at public places such as schools, parks and hospitals. This is a joint project of the Department of Health, Department of Construction, Sawaco, and SaigonWater. 

Experts have warned that the main sources of water have become seriously polluted due to the impact of socio-economic development along the Sài Gòn – Đồng Nai river system. 

According to Sawaco, the city aims to increase the average supply of clean water per capita per day by 165 litres, and provide 100 per cent of residents access to clean water.  VNS