Author(s): Omar Ezequiel Cabrera; Faustino De Luna; Alma Chavez; Maritza Arganis; Margarita Preciado
Linked Author(s):
Keywords: Isobaric curves; Drinking water supply network; Geographic information system; Social development index
Abstract: In many large cities around the world, the reliability and equity of drinking water distribution systems are increasingly challenged by rapid urbanization, aging infrastructure, and growing social disparities. One critical issue is the spatial variability of water pressure within distribution networks, which can lead to service interruptions, infrastructure damage, and unequal access to water. These technical deficiencies often intersect with areas of high social vulnerability, exacerbating existing inequalities and undermining the resilience of urban communities. This study analyzes the spatial distribution of water pressure in the potable water network of a borough in Mexico City, using hydraulic modeling and geospatial analysis. The results reveal significant pressure fluctuations across the network, with low-pressure zones frequently overlapping with neighborhoods characterized by low social development indices. This correlation suggests that technical inefficiencies in water infrastructure may reinforce patterns of marginalization. The findings highlight the need for integrated planning approaches that consider both hydraulic performance and social equity to improve water service delivery in megacities.
Year: 2026