Impacts of the protective measures taken for the COVID-19 pandemic on water consumption and post meter leakages in public places

Adequate, secure, and sustainable water supply gained utmost importance as an essential public service during the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim of this research study is to investigate impacts of the protective measures taken for the COVID-19 pandemic on water consumption and post meter leakages in public places. A total of 22 pilot study sites (PSS) representing schools, graveyards, parks, mosques, public toilets, a university building, and a sport facility were chosen to apply this study. The PSS were equipped with smart meters with different sizes that were capable of measuring the flow rates at short intervals of 15 min. The flow rates were continuously monitored at the PSS for more than 1 year before and during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2019 and 2020. Post meter leakages were determined based on the minimum night flow (MNF). The monitoring results showed a considerable decrease (42%) in the total flow rates at public places because of the lockdown measures, but excessive post meter leakages (72% of total flow rates) were also observed. Additionally, the decrease in flow rates adversely affected measuring accuracy of the meters and thereby increased the apparent water losses. Control of post meter leakages and selection of appropriate size of meters are important for efficient use of urban water. Water and energy savings besides reduction in greenhouse gas emissions are the main environmental benefits of leakage control. The use of smart technologies contributes to efficient and sustainable management of urban water demand, but raising public awareness for conservation of water is essential. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10661-022-09913-w.