A review of monitoring site selection methods for urban drainage networks – the missing link between theory and practice

This paper presents a critical review of methodologies for monitoring site selection in urban drainage networks, focusing on underground pipe systems. By examining the 35 most relevant publications, trends, strengths, and limitations of their approaches are identified. These methodologies are assessed based on their ability to achieve specific objectives, including model calibration, contaminant detection, and compliance with regulations. In addition to the literature review, the paper presents three case studies that illustrate practical challenges and describe how they were addressed. These case studies highlight how practical constraints such as budget limitations, available data, and accessibility shape decisions during monitoring campaigns. The reliance on expert knowledge emerges as a recurring theme in the practical application of urban drainage monitoring, contrasting with the often theoretical focus of academic research. The findings reveal a gap between theoretical advancements and practical implementation in planning monitoring campaigns, but therein lies an opportunity to better connect the two. To address this gap, we suggest developing standardised benchmarking datasets, modular methodologies, and relevant guidelines tailored to practitioners’ needs. This study aims to bridge the divide between research innovations and real-world applications and improve the planning and execution of monitoring campaigns while promoting collaboration between researchers and practitioners.