Maintaining the sewer collection network and its effects on ground water

Abstract

Ground water for the island of Malta is a vital economic, natural, and limited resource that has to be managed and protected on sustainable bases. Contamination of ground water by leakages from the sewerage system can have a drastic impact on the economy of these islands. The sewerage system's primary aim is to safeguard public health and to control environmental pollution. Efficiency of the system depends on its design and the effectiveness of its upkeep. It is the aim of this research to establish the gravity of leakages that are affecting the ground water table, and how could this be reduced. There is evidence that the sewerage system presently leaks. Nonetheless the findings of this paper suggest that the overall impact on ground water from the sewerage system does not appear to be that drastic. However the importance of proper maintenance to maintain the sewerage system operating efficiently is evident.