Economic, Social and Ecological Aspects of Water Transportation through Worn-Out Networks in a Large Siberian City

The relevance of the study is associated with the need to systematize the data on accidents, leaks and secondary pollution of drinking water in water pipes. Purpose: The purpose of the work is to assess deterioration of drinking water supply systems in Russian regions and in Tomsk, identify the possible impact of the material of water pipes on the water quality and public health during long-term operation, and justify a set of organizational and economic measures to improve the water supply. Methodology: Descriptive and analytical methods, data generalization from the literature, interdisciplinary synthesis, logical generalization, data visualization. Research findings: The current state of the central and distribution water supply systems in Russian cities is evaluated. The possibility of using Russian and foreign traditional experience and innovations is evaluated to increase the reliability, durability, eco-friendliness of water pipes by selecting the best pipe materials. Measures are proposed to eliminate the main causes of leaks, accidents in water supply systems and the quality improvement of drinking water at the stage of delivery to the consumer. Value: The Russian and foreign experience in water pipes made of metal and plastic is highlighted. Secondary pollution of supplied water is evaluated, depending on the initial composition and properties and process parameters of pipelines. Measures are proposed to improve the efficiency of dilapidated water pipes.