Hyderabad: HMWSSB rolls out SCADA system to track water flow, prevent leakages

Hyderabad: Hyderabad Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (HMWSSB) has introduced a real-time online monitoring system that tracks water flow from reservoirs to household taps.

The move is aimed at curbing leakages and ensuring efficient water supply across the city, the

After the successful implementation of the SCADA system in Lingampally as a pilot project, the Board is now preparing to extend the smart monitoring network citywide.

Smart monitoring for water management

The Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system enables real-time monitoring of water flow, pressure levels, and quality parameters across the supply chain.

Earlier, officials relied on field staff to report pipeline leakages or supply disruptions. Now, any irregularity, including leaks, pressure drops, or unauthorised diversion, is instantly detected at the central control room through digital sensors and flow meters.

With 24/7 online surveillance, authorities can respond swiftly, reducing water wastage and improving transparency in distribution.

Lingampally pilot yields results

Lingampally was chosen as the pilot zone to enhance accountability in water supply. Advanced digital flow meters and sensors were installed at major reservoirs and pumping stations.

The system tracks volume of water released from reservoirs, pressure levels in pipelines, and supply consistency to elevated and tail-end areas.

Officials said the project has addressed long-standing complaints about insufficient supply to houses located in higher elevations. Real-time data is accessible even through mobile monitoring systems, enabling faster corrective action.

The pilot demonstrated that integrating technology significantly improves water conservation and service delivery.

Monitoring water quality

Beyond supply management, the SCADA system also tracks water quality parameters, including chlorine levels. This ensures safe drinking water reaches households. Alerts are generated in case of pipeline bursts or contamination risks, allowing immediate repairs and intervention.

Key outcomes of SCADA implementation

Leakage Reduction: 15–20% control in water losses

24/7 Surveillance: Continuous online monitoring with minimal human error.

Faster Grievance Redressal: Data-driven response system.

Energy Savings: Optimised pumping schedules reduce power consumption.

Automation: Automatic control of pumping motors.

Data Analytics: Improved forecasting of future water demand.

Citywide expansion planned

Following the positive results in Lingampally, the Water Board plans to bring the entire supply network, including Krishna, Godavari, Singur, and Manjeera water sources, under the SCADA framework.

The initiative aims to digitally connect major reservoirs to sub-reservoirs located within city neighbourhoods.

“Our goal is to protect every drop of water through an integrated digital network,” said HMWSSB managing director. He also added that smart water management will soon become a citywide reality.

“With Hyderabad rapidly expanding, we believe the move toward intelligent water monitoring will ensure sustainable supply, improved accountability, and better resource management for the future,” Ashok Reddy said.