Smart Water Management Applications in the Central Group Black-Odor Water Remediation Project of Zhongshan City

I. Project Background and Overview

1.1 Project Context and Governance Objectives

The Central Group Black-Odor (Non-Accomplished) Water Bodies Remediation and Improvement Project in Zhongshan City represents a cornerstone initiative in Guangdong Province's comprehensive water environment governance strategy. Following the Central Environmental Protection Inspection Team's designation of "Zhongshan Inland River Pollution" as a typical case in October 2021, Zhongshan municipal government recognized water pollution control as a pivotal component of its high-quality development strategy (6).

The project focuses on comprehensive treatment of 58 rivers in four towns/districts of Zhongshan City: Nansha District, Shaxi, Dayong, and Wuguishan. Through the construction of 93.1 kilometers of new pipe networks, repair of 82.7 kilometers of pipelines, establishment of 78 intelligent intercepting wells, and construction of 6 sewage lift stations, the project has comprehensively eliminated black-odor problems in all 58 rivers (4).

The implementation approach adopted a "dual-line management" model combining construction and river patrol. Through daily river patrols to monitor water quality changes in real-time, the project established an immediate rectification feedback mechanism for discovered problems, achieving closed-loop management of "discovery-disposal-acceptance" to ensure each river was treated effectively (4).

1.2 Smart Water Management System Architecture

Zhongshan City has placed significant emphasis on the application of smart water management technologies throughout the implementation of the Central Group Black-Odor Water Bodies Remediation Project. The system architecture is built around the concept of "source water treatment, scientific water treatment," focusing on three aspects: sediment treatment, water ecosystem restoration, and long-term urban river network management and control (4).

The overall smart water management system architecture in Zhongshan City mainly includes the following components:

  1. Perception Layer: Real-time collection of water body, pipe network, pump station and other facility operation data through IoT terminals such as water quality monitoring equipment, flow monitoring equipment, and water level monitoring equipment.
  2. Network Layer: Utilization of IoT, big data, cloud computing and other technologies to achieve data transmission, storage and processing.
  3. Platform Layer: Construction of the Zhongshan City Urban Smart Drainage Platform, integration of drainage pipe network, pump station, sewage treatment plant and other facility data to form a "one map" management system.
  4. Application Layer: Development of four types of scenarios - smart management, operation and maintenance, dispatching, and service - totaling 22 application system modules to achieve intelligent management and decision support (6).

The Zhongshan City Urban Smart Drainage Platform Project, implemented through government-enterprise joint construction, is based on IoT, cloud computing, big data and other technologies. Its implementation scope includes the central city area and Shaxi Town, and its achievements can be extended to the whole city. The completed support platform and application systems can be used by other towns and streets (9).

1.3 Project Implementation Outcomes

Through the application of smart water management technology, the Central Group Black-Odor Water Bodies Remediation Project in Zhongshan City has achieved remarkable results:

  1. Water Quality Improvement: The water quality index of inland rivers in Zhongshan City has improved by 48% compared with 2021, and the black-odor phenomenon in rivers has been basically eliminated (6).
  2. Facility Efficiency Improvement: Through the application of the smart drainage platform, staff can clearly understand the operation status of drainage pipes, pump stations, sewage treatment plants and other facilities in the jurisdiction, greatly improving work efficiency. After using the platform, the number of water accumulation incidents has significantly decreased by 75% despite increased rainfall compared to previous years (6).
  3. Operation Cost Reduction: Through intelligent transformation and optimized operation, energy consumption and chemical consumption of sewage treatment plants and pump stations have been reduced, and labor costs have been decreased. For example, through the transformation of pump stations in urban areas of Zhongshan City, pipe network IoT monitoring, and the development of computer vision-based intelligent identification technology for drainage facility status, 30% of drainage facility operation and maintenance and emergency response personnel can be reduced (9).
  4. Decision Support Enhancement: The smart water management system, through integration of multi-source data, establishment of model simulation and data analysis platform, provides scientific basis for management decisions. For example, the platform integrates real-time rainfall, rainfall forecast, pipe network water level data and video monitoring information, truly achieving "one map" for emergency operations, which can visually query flood prevention real-time information such as rainwater conditions, personnel and equipment distribution, and water accumulation situations, providing powerful data support for precise flood prevention (9).

II. Key Smart Water Management Technology Applications

2.1 Intelligent Monitoring System Applications

2.1.1 Water Quality Monitoring System

Zhongshan City has constructed a comprehensive water quality monitoring system in the Central Group Black-Odor Water Bodies Remediation Project, achieving real-time monitoring of river water quality. These monitoring devices can monitor 9 indicators including COD, ammonia nitrogen, total phosphorus, total nitrogen, and five parameters of surface water, conducting automatic monitoring every 4 hours and uploading data to the water environment comprehensive management platform in real-time (6).

The River Water Quality Automatic Monitoring Platform Project in Zhongshan City was first launched in 2017 with a total planned investment of about 340 million yuan, supporting the city's remediation of black-odor (non-accomplished) water bodies. 259 water quality automatic monitoring facilities (including 27 built on drinking water sources) were deployed on the city's outer rivers, key polluted rivers, main rivers, and drinking water sources, establishing a prevention and control integrated Zhongshan Water Environment Comprehensive Management Platform, covering all 15 basins and 25 towns/streets in the city (6).

The application of these monitoring facilities has greatly improved the decision-making and water environment situation analysis capabilities of Zhongshan City environmental management departments. The platform can achieve functions such as water quality early warning and forecasting, pollution source tracing, assessment and ranking, video online monitoring, data sharing and release. Once abnormal water quality is detected, the platform will automatically alarm, and staff can also use mathematical models to analyze and trace pollution sources based on data, providing technical support for subsequent remediation work (6).

2.1.2 Pipe Network Monitoring System

In the Central Group Black-Odor Water Bodies Remediation Project, Zhongshan City has carried out comprehensive construction of a drainage pipe network monitoring system. By installing monitoring equipment at key nodes of the drainage pipe network, parameters such as pipe network water level and flow rate are monitored in real-time, providing data support for pipe network operation management (9).

The Urban Smart Drainage Platform Project in Zhongshan City has completed 309 sets of perception layer construction, carried out automatic control transformation on 53 pump gate stations, and successfully launched 17 systems, with an overall progress of 91%. By integrating approximately 2,700 kilometers of drainage pipe network investigation data in the central city area, as well as operation data of Zhongjia and Zhenjiashan sewage treatment plants and 96 pump gate stations, the platform has achieved "one platform" comprehensive review, 24-hour continuous monitoring of drainage "plant, station, network" data, greatly improving the management and maintenance efficiency of drainage facilities (9).

The smart drainage platform not only focuses on drainage facilities themselves, but also through access to Zhongshan City Hydrological Telemetry System, meteorological forecast data and Geographic Information System data from the Natural Resources Bureau, realizes dynamic superposition and updating of drainage pipelines and urban topographic maps. The platform integrates real-time rainfall, rainfall forecast, pipe network water level data and video monitoring information, truly achieving "one map" for emergency operations, which can visually query flood prevention real-time information such as rainwater conditions, personnel and equipment distribution, and water accumulation situations, providing powerful data support for precise flood prevention (9).

2.1.3 Video Monitoring System

Zhongshan City has widely applied video monitoring systems in the Central Group Black-Odor Water Bodies Remediation Project, achieving visual management of rivers, pipe networks, pump stations and other facilities. These video monitoring systems achieve security information integration and linkage through access to video equipment such as video monitoring and alarm detection. Taking electronic map as the carrier, integrating the capabilities of various systems, to achieve rich intelligent applications (9).

The Smart Drainage Platform in Zhongshan City is connected with the public security system, achieving sharing of camera resources, enabling staff to monitor the city's water accumulation situation in real-time, which has greatly improved work efficiency. In the past, the method of manual driving patrol was not only time-consuming and laborious, but also had limited coverage. Now, with the help of this platform, staff can respond to various emergencies more efficiently (9).

2.2 Intelligent Control System Applications

2.2.1 Intelligent Interception Well Control System

In the Central Group Black-Odor Water Bodies Remediation Project, Zhongshan City has built 78 intelligent interception wells, achieving intelligent control of combined sewer systems. These intelligent interception wells can automatically adjust the interception multiple according to rainfall and water quality conditions, achieving precise diversion and discharge of rainwater and sewage, which not only curbs environmental pollution caused by sewage entering rivers from the source, but also significantly reduces the load pressure on sewage treatment plants (4).

The application of intelligent interception wells enables Zhongshan City to effectively control combined sewage overflow pollution during rainy seasons and protect river water quality. At the same time, through intelligent control, the operation of sewage treatment plants can also be optimized, improving treatment efficiency and reducing energy consumption (8).

2.2.2 Pump Station Intelligent Control System

In the Central Group Black-Odor Water Bodies Remediation Project, Zhongshan City has carried out intelligent transformation of pump stations, achieving remote control and automatic operation of pump stations. These intelligent pump stations can automatically adjust the operation of water pumps according to parameters such as water level and flow rate, achieving efficient and energy-saving operation (9).

Zhongshan City has carried out automatic control transformation on 53 pump gate stations, and through automation transformation and remote control, has basically achieved unmanned 值守 for pump stations. This intelligent transformation not only improves the operation efficiency of pump stations, but also reduces operating costs and decreases the workload of manual patrols (9).

2.2.3 Sewage Treatment Plant Intelligent Control System

In the Central Group Black-Odor Water Bodies Remediation Project, Zhongshan City has carried out intelligent transformation of sewage treatment plants, achieving automatic control and optimized operation of the sewage treatment process.

As the largest sewage treatment plant in Zhongshan City, Zhongjia Sewage Treatment Plant has carried out phase III expansion and intelligent transformation, with a designed treatment scale of 400,000 tons/day. The third phase expansion project of Zhongjia Sewage Treatment Plant adopted a multi-stage AO process, and through government-enterprise joint construction, established the Zhongshan City Urban Smart Drainage Platform, achieving a leap from traditional drainage to information-based and intelligent drainage (9).

In Zhongjia Sewage Treatment Plant, workers rarely operate on-site, and all parameter monitoring and operations are completed in the control center of the sewage treatment plant. "At present, our operation team can use very few personnel to achieve the operation, operation and process control of the entire sewage treatment plant, which is mainly due to our relatively advanced control system, which can monitor relevant parameters of each sewage treatment stage and control remotely in real-time." said Liu Chuangchuang, a technician in the Sewage Production Department of Zhongshan Public City Drainage Co., Ltd (9).

2.3 Smart Scheduling System Applications

2.3.1 Drainage Scheduling System

In the Central Group Black-Odor Water Bodies Remediation Project, Zhongshan City has constructed a drainage scheduling system, achieving unified scheduling and optimized operation of drainage pipe networks, pump stations, sewage treatment plants and other facilities.

The Urban Smart Drainage Platform in Zhongshan City integrates "command-scheduling-operation", based on the drainage pipe network "one map", integrating big data, IoT and model simulation and other cutting-edge technologies, building an intelligent management system integrating "command-scheduling-operation". The platform realizes "visualization" of the interior of drainage pipes, dynamic updating of pipe networks and information traceability functions; optimizes the early warning function for abnormal accidents in drainage pipe networks, pump stations and sewage treatment plants, and provides intelligent scheduling schemes (9).

2.3.2 Flood Control Scheduling System

In the Central Group Black-Odor Water Bodies Remediation Project, Zhongshan City has constructed a flood control scheduling system, achieving unified scheduling and management of urban flood control resources.

Through close collaboration with public security departments, the Smart Drainage Platform in Zhongshan City uses camera networks to immediately grasp road water accumulation conditions and quickly mobilize patrol vehicles for emergency response, playing an important disaster prevention role. The company has equipped flood control teams with mobile single-soldier communication equipment, and through the platform, has 开启 a "live broadcast" mode for flood control and emergency response, achieving "one-screen presentation, rapid response" (9).

"Our flood control teams are equipped with mobile single-soldier communication equipment, and through the platform, we have 开启 a 'live broadcast' mode for flood control and emergency response, achieving 'one-screen presentation, rapid response'." said Ma Lincheng, an information technology engineer at Zhongshan Public City Drainage Co., Ltd (9).

2.3.3 Water Quality Scheduling System

In the Central Group Black-Odor Water Bodies Remediation Project, Zhongshan City has constructed a water quality scheduling system, achieving dynamic monitoring and regulation of river water quality. This system establishes a water quality model to simulate water quality changes under different operating conditions, providing decision support for water quality management (6).

Through integration of water quality monitoring data, meteorological data, hydrological data and other multi-source data, Zhongshan City has established a water quality prediction model that can predict water quality change trends in advance, providing a scientific basis for water quality management. For example, the system can predict water quality fluctuation trends 48 hours in advance, reserving sufficient time for process adjustment and effectively preventing water quality abnormality risks (6).

2.4 Data Analysis and Decision Support System Applications

2.4.1 Big Data Analysis Platform

In the Central Group Black-Odor Water Bodies Remediation Project, Zhongshan City has constructed a big data analysis platform to process, analyze and mine massive monitoring data, providing support for management decisions.

The Urban Smart Drainage Platform in Zhongshan City is based on big data technology, integrating operation data of drainage pipe networks, pump stations, sewage treatment plants and other facilities, as well as multi-source data such as water quality monitoring data, meteorological data and hydrological data, establishing a unified data resource library. Through analysis and mining of these data, a comprehensive grasp and accurate prediction of the operation status of the drainage system is achieved (9).

The platform integrates real-time rainfall, rainfall forecast, pipe network water level data and video monitoring information, truly achieving "one map" for emergency operations, which can visually query flood prevention real-time information such as rainwater conditions, personnel and equipment distribution, and water accumulation situations, providing powerful data support for precise flood prevention (9).

2.4.2 Artificial Intelligence Applications

In the Central Group Black-Odor Water Bodies Remediation Project, Zhongshan City has applied artificial intelligence technology to achieve intelligent management and decision support for the drainage system.

By building an intelligent water resource analysis hub, integrating multi-source data from water affairs, environmental protection, meteorology and other fields, Zhongshan City has constructed a unified city-wide water resource analysis platform. Using AI's data mining and analysis capabilities, it dynamically analyzes water quality change patterns, pollution diffusion paths and supply-demand contradictions, and generates real-time early warnings and treatment recommendations (6).

For example, Zhongshan City uses AI models to analyze tidal cycles, upstream inflow rates and saltwater intrusion patterns, as well as key factors such as underground space staggered construction conditions, scientifically predicting the timing and scope of saltwater intrusion, and formulating targeted emergency measures to minimize impacts on residents' domestic water use (6).

2.4.3 Digital Twin Technology Applications

In the Central Group Black-Odor Water Bodies Remediation Project, Zhongshan City has applied digital twin technology, constructing a digital model of the drainage system, achieving real-time monitoring, simulation analysis and optimal control of the drainage system.

The Urban Smart Drainage Platform Project in Zhongshan City uses digital twin technology to construct a virtual model of the drainage system, achieving real-time interaction and synchronous updating between the physical system and the digital model. Through digital twin technology, the platform realizes "visualization" of the interior of drainage pipes, dynamic updating of pipe networks and information traceability functions; optimizes the early warning function for abnormal accidents in drainage pipe networks, pump stations and sewage treatment plants, and provides intelligent scheduling schemes (9).

The Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development has issued the "Guidelines for Smart Water Management Construction (2023 Edition)", specifying the technical specifications for digital twin systems, including modeling accuracy (BIM+GIS error ≤0.1%), data real-time performance (delay <1 second) and other hard indicators. Zhongshan City's digital twin system strictly follows these technical specifications, ensuring the accuracy and reliability of the system (9).

III. International Case Studies of Smart Water Management

3.1 Singapore's ABC Waters Programme

3.1.1 Programme Overview

In 2006, Singapore's Public Utilities Board (PUB) launched the Active, Beautiful, Clean (ABC) Waters Programme, aiming to transform waterways and water bodies into beautiful urban assets by integrating drainage infrastructure with the built environment while bringing people closer to water (30). The programme showcases the role of water in urban spaces and demonstrates how water is a vital ingredient in the development of liveable cities (30).

The ABC Waters Programme represents a comprehensive approach to water management that goes beyond traditional engineering solutions. It views water not merely as a utilitarian resource but as a key element of urban design and quality of life (31).

3.1.2 Technical Solutions

The ABC Waters Programme employs a range of innovative technical solutions to achieve its objectives:

  1. Integrated Water Management: The programme integrates stormwater management with urban design, creating multifunctional water spaces that serve both flood control and recreational purposes. For example, Jurong Lake has been transformed into a venue for recreation and community bonding, where a stage and viewing promenade provide a scenic location for community events (34).
  2. Smart Water Grid: Singapore has implemented an integrated, end-to-end platform for real-time monitoring of water distribution systems called WaterWise. This system helps improve the operational efficiency of the water supply system through continuous in-network monitoring of hydraulic and water quality parameters (32).
  3. Green Infrastructure: The programme incorporates extensive green infrastructure elements such as bioswales, rain gardens, and vegetated rooftops to manage stormwater while enhancing urban aesthetics and biodiversity (33).
  4. Flood Management Innovation: The ABC Waters Programme has implemented innovative flood management solutions, including the use of detention basins, permeable pavements, and constructed wetlands to reduce runoff and improve water quality (33).

3.1.3 Implementation Outcomes

The ABC Waters Programme has achieved remarkable results since its implementation:

  1. Water Quality Improvement: The programme has significantly improved water quality in Singapore's water bodies, transforming previously polluted canals and drains into clean, attractive waterways.
  2. Urban Space Enhancement: The transformation of waterways into vibrant urban spaces has created new recreational opportunities and enhanced the liveability of Singapore's urban environment.
  3. Flood Risk Reduction: The integrated stormwater management approaches have reduced flood risk in urban areas while also creating aesthetically pleasing landscapes (33).
  4. Community Engagement: The ABC Waters Programme has successfully engaged the community through various outreach activities, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility for Singapore's water resources (30).
  5. Economic Benefits: The programme has generated significant economic benefits through increased property values, enhanced tourism appeal, and improved quality of life for residents (31).

3.2 Phoenix's Chilled Drinking Water Initiative (USA)

3.2.1 Project Overview

Launched in January 2025, Phoenix's Chilled Drinking Water Initiative represents a significant step toward addressing the community's need for access to chilled drinking water in high-density areas of the city (35). These areas are frequented by people who bike, walk, and use public transportation to get to work, school, and medical appointments (35).

The pilot project, implemented in partnership with Downtown Phoenix, Inc., includes three custom-designed, smart drinking water stations with bottle fillers located at strategic locations: the entrance of Phoenix City Hall, near the Phoenix City Council chambers, and along the Sonoran bicycle pathway into downtown Phoenix, near Roosevelt Street and Third Avenue (35).

3.2.2 Technical Solutions

The Phoenix Chilled Drinking Water Initiative incorporates several innovative technical solutions:

  1. Smart Water Station Design: The custom-designed drinking water stations feature advanced filtration systems, temperature control, and bottle-filling capabilities. These stations are equipped with smart technology to monitor water usage, quality, and equipment performance in real-time (35).
  2. Energy-Efficient Cooling: The stations utilize energy-efficient cooling systems to provide chilled drinking water while minimizing energy consumption. This approach aligns with Phoenix's sustainability goals and reduces operational costs (35).
  3. Water Quality Monitoring: Each station is equipped with sensors to monitor water quality parameters such as pH, turbidity, and chlorine levels in real-time. Data from these sensors is transmitted to a central monitoring system for analysis and reporting (35).
  4. User Interface and Feedback: The stations feature user-friendly interfaces with touchscreens that provide information about water quality, temperature, and usage statistics. They also include feedback mechanisms to allow users to report issues or provide suggestions (35).

3.2.3 Implementation Outcomes

The Phoenix Chilled Drinking Water Initiative has already demonstrated several positive outcomes:

  1. Improved Access to Clean Water: The initiative has significantly improved access to clean, chilled drinking water in high-density urban areas, particularly benefiting pedestrians, cyclists, and public transportation users (35).
  2. Reduced Plastic Waste: By encouraging the use of reusable water bottles, the initiative is helping to reduce single-use plastic waste in the city, supporting Phoenix's sustainability objectives (35).
  3. Enhanced Public Health: The provision of clean, chilled drinking water in public spaces promotes hydration and improves public health, particularly during Phoenix's hot summer months (35).
  4. Community Engagement: The initiative has engaged the community through public input sessions and educational materials, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility for the city's water resources (35).
  5. Data-Driven Decision Making: The real-time monitoring data collected from the smart drinking water stations provides valuable insights into water usage patterns and public needs, informing future urban planning and infrastructure investments (35).

3.3 WaterWise Smart Water Grid in Singapore

3.3.1 Project Overview

WaterWise is an integrated, end-to-end platform for real-time monitoring of water distribution systems that addresses the needs of aging water infrastructure (32). As aging water distribution infrastructures encounter failures with increasing frequency, there is a real need for integrated, on-line decision-support systems based on continuous in-network monitoring of hydraulic and water quality parameters (32).

This smart water grid allows water utilities to improve optimization of system operation, manage leakage control more effectively, and reduce the duration and disruption of repairs and maintenance (32). The system has been implemented in downtown Singapore to improve the operational efficiency of the water supply system.

3.3.2 Technical Solutions

The WaterWise smart water grid employs several innovative technical solutions:

  1. Real-Time Monitoring: The system uses a network of sensors to continuously monitor hydraulic parameters (such as pressure and flow) and water quality parameters throughout the distribution system. This allows for early detection of leaks, water quality issues, and equipment malfunctions (32).
  2. Data Integration and Analysis: The platform integrates data from various sources, including sensors, SCADA systems, and GIS databases, to provide a comprehensive view of the water distribution system. Advanced analytics and machine learning algorithms are used to identify patterns, predict failures, and optimize system performance (32).
  3. Leak Detection and Localization: The system employs advanced algorithms to detect and locate leaks based on pressure and flow data. This allows for more targeted and efficient leak repair, reducing water loss and infrastructure damage (32).
  4. Decision Support Tools: The platform provides water utilities with decision support tools that enable them to simulate different scenarios, evaluate alternatives, and make informed decisions about system operation and maintenance (32).
  5. Remote Monitoring and Control: WaterWise allows for remote monitoring and control of system components, reducing the need for on-site inspections and enabling more efficient response to operational issues (32).

3.3.3 Implementation Outcomes

The implementation of the WaterWise smart water grid in Singapore has yielded several significant outcomes:

  1. Improved Operational Efficiency: The system has enabled more efficient management of the water distribution system, reducing energy consumption and operational costs (32).
  2. Reduced Water Loss: Through advanced leak detection and localization, the system has significantly reduced non-revenue water (NRW) in the distribution network, improving water conservation and system sustainability (32).
  3. Enhanced Water Quality Management: Real-time monitoring of water quality parameters has improved the ability to detect and respond to water quality issues, ensuring safe drinking water for consumers (32).
  4. Faster Response to System Issues: The system's real-time monitoring and decision support capabilities have enabled faster identification and resolution of system issues, minimizing service disruptions and infrastructure damage (32).
  5. Predictive Maintenance: By identifying potential equipment failures before they occur, the system has enabled a shift from reactive to predictive maintenance, reducing downtime and extending the lifespan of system components (32).

IV. Comparative Analysis of Smart Water Management Technologies

4.1 Monitoring Technology Comparison

4.1.1 Water Quality Monitoring Technology Comparison

 

Technical Parameter Smart Water Quality Monitoring Traditional Water Quality Monitoring
Monitoring Frequency Automatic monitoring every 4 hours, real-time data upload Manual sampling at low frequency, typically weekly or monthly
Monitoring Parameters Can monitor 9 indicators including COD, ammonia nitrogen, total phosphorus, total nitrogen, and five parameters of surface water Limited monitoring parameters, typically only a few conventional indicators
Data Processing Automatic processing, analysis and storage, capable of anomaly early warning and pollution source tracing Manual processing, low efficiency, limited analysis capabilities
Monitoring Range Covers 15 basins and 25 towns/streets across the city, with 259 monitoring stations Limited monitoring range, difficult to achieve comprehensive coverage
Response Speed Real-time monitoring, immediate alarm for abnormal situations Slow response, difficult to detect water quality anomalies in a timely manner
Manpower Requirements High degree of automation, low manpower requirements Requires a large amount of manpower for sampling, analysis and data processing

Smart water quality monitoring technology offers significant advantages over traditional methods, including higher monitoring frequency, more parameters, wider coverage, and faster response times. These capabilities enable more proactive and effective water quality management (6).

4.1.2 Pipe Network Monitoring Technology Comparison

 

Technical Parameter Smart Pipe Network Monitoring Traditional Pipe Network Monitoring
Monitoring Method IoT device real-time monitoring, automatic data upload Manual inspection as main method, supplemented by temporary detection equipment
Monitoring Parameters Simultaneous monitoring of water level, flow, water quality and other parameters Limited monitoring parameters, typically can only monitor water level or flow
Data Processing Automatic analysis and early warning, can provide decision support Manual analysis, low efficiency, difficult to detect potential problems
Monitoring Range Covers approximately 2,700 kilometers of drainage pipe network in the central city area Limited monitoring range, typically can only cover key areas
Anomaly Identification Intelligent identification of abnormal states, automatic alarm Relies on manual identification, easy to miss
Management Efficiency Can achieve "one platform" comprehensive review, 24-hour continuous monitoring Decentralized management, low efficiency

Smart pipe network monitoring technology, through the application of IoT and big data technologies, achieves comprehensive and real-time monitoring and intelligent management of drainage pipe networks, offering significant advantages over traditional methods (9).

4.2 Control Technology Comparison

4.2.1 Interception Well Control Technology Comparison

 

Technical Parameter Smart Interception Well Technology Traditional Interception Well Technology
Control Method Intelligent control, automatic adjustment of interception multiple according to rainfall and water quality Fixed interception multiple, unable to adjust according to actual conditions
Control Precision High-precision control, can achieve precise diversion and discharge Low control precision, easy to cause overflow pollution or treatment capacity waste
Automation Level Fully automatic control, no need for manual intervention Relies on manual operation, low degree of automation
Energy Saving Effect Can optimize operation according to actual conditions, reduce energy consumption and treatment costs Fixed operation mode, high energy consumption and treatment costs
Management Efficiency Can remotely monitor and manage, high management efficiency Mainly on-site management, low management efficiency
Environmental Benefits Effectively controls combined sewage overflow pollution, protects water environment Serious overflow pollution during rainy seasons, significant impact on water environment

Smart interception well technology, through the application of intelligent control and automation technology, achieves precise control of combined sewage, offering significant environmental and economic benefits compared to traditional methods (4).

4.2.2 Pump Station Control Technology Comparison

 

Technical Parameter Smart Pump Station Technology Traditional Pump Station Technology
Control Method Automation control, can remotely operate and monitor Mainly on-site control, low degree of automation
Operation Mode Can automatically adjust operation mode according to water level, flow and other parameters Fixed operation mode, unable to adjust according to actual conditions
Energy Management Intelligent optimization operation, reduces energy consumption High energy consumption, lack of optimization means
Maintenance Management Predictive maintenance, reduces downtime Regular maintenance, slow response to failures
Management Efficiency Unmanned 值守,remote monitoring, high management efficiency Requires dedicated personnel on duty, low management efficiency
Reliability High system stability, automatic fault diagnosis and alarm Lower reliability, difficult fault troubleshooting

Smart pump station technology, through the application of automation and intelligence technology, achieves efficient, energy-saving and reliable operation of pump stations, offering significant advantages over traditional methods (9).

4.3 Management Technology Comparison

4.3.1 Drainage Management Technology Comparison

 

Technical Parameter Smart Drainage Management Traditional Drainage Management
Management Mode "Factory-network-river integration" whole-element water management mechanism Decentralized management, lack of coordination between departments
Data Integration Integration of pipe network data, sewage outlet monitoring and sewage treatment plant operation information Decentralized data, difficult to achieve sharing and integration
Decision Support Based on big data analysis and model simulation, provides scientific decision support Relies on experience and intuition, scientific nature of decision-making is insufficient
Emergency Response Real-time monitoring, rapid response, can achieve "one-screen presentation, rapid response" Slow response, difficult coordination
Management Efficiency Reduces 30% of drainage facility operation and maintenance and emergency response personnel High manpower demand, low management efficiency
Information Sharing Achieves cross-departmental and cross-system data sharing and business collaboration Serious information silos, difficult sharing

Smart drainage management technology, through systematic and intelligent management models, achieves integrated management and collaborative operation of drainage systems, offering significant advantages over traditional methods (9).

4.3.2 Flood Control Management Technology Comparison

 

Technical Parameter Smart Flood Control Management Traditional Flood Control Management
Monitoring Methods Real-time monitoring of multiple sources of data such as rainfall, water conditions, and project conditions Limited monitoring methods, incomplete information acquisition
Early Warning Capability Can predict water accumulation risks in advance, achieve precise early warning Limited early warning capability, difficult to predict in advance
Scheduling Methods Visual scheduling based on "one map", scientific and efficient Traditional scheduling methods, low efficiency
Resource Management Real-time monitoring and dynamic scheduling of flood control resources Decentralized resource management, difficult scheduling
Emergency Response Achieves "live broadcast" mode for flood control and emergency response, fast response Slow response, 不畅 information transmission
Handling Effect Increased rainfall but 75% reduction in water accumulation times Handling effect depends on experience, poor stability

Smart flood control management technology, through information and intelligent means, achieves precise and efficient management of flood control work, offering significant advantages over traditional methods (9).

4.4 Comprehensive Benefit Comparison

 

Benefit Type Smart Water Management Traditional Water Management
Environmental Benefits Effectively controls pollution, improves water quality, river water quality index improved by 48% Limited pollution control effect, insignificant water quality improvement
Economic Benefits Reduces 30% of drainage facility operation and maintenance and emergency response personnel High operating costs, poor economic benefits
Social Benefits Enhances urban quality, improves living environment, enhances public satisfaction Limited social benefits, weak public perception
Management Benefits Achieves "one platform" comprehensive management, improves management efficiency and level Decentralized management, low efficiency
Sustainability Advanced technology, strong scalability, adapts to future development needs Backward technology, difficult to upgrade and transform
Innovation Value Promotes technological innovation and transformation in the water industry Insufficient innovation motivation, slow development

Comprehensive analysis shows that smart water management technology offers significant advantages in environmental, economic, and social aspects, representing the inevitable trend of future development in the water industry (6).

V. Smart Water Management Application Operation Processes

5.1 Water Quality Monitoring Operation Process

5.1.1 Monitoring Equipment Installation and Maintenance Process

The equipment installation and maintenance process for Zhongshan City's river water quality monitoring system follows these steps:

  1. Equipment Selection and Procurement: According to monitoring needs and site conditions, select appropriate water quality monitoring equipment and carry out procurement. Equipment should meet relevant national standards and technical specifications, with characteristics of high precision, high reliability, and low power consumption (6).
  2. Site Survey and Installation:
    • Conduct site surveys of monitoring points to determine the best installation location and method.
    • Carry out equipment installation, including sensor installation, data collector installation, power system installation, etc.
    • Conduct equipment debugging and calibration to ensure normal operation (6).
  3. System Integration:
    • Integrate monitoring equipment with data transmission systems and water environment comprehensive management platforms.
    • Test data transmission stability and accuracy to ensure data can be uploaded to the platform in real-time and accurately (6).
  4. Daily Maintenance:
    • Regularly inspect and maintain monitoring equipment, clean sensor surfaces, and check equipment operation status.
    • Regularly calibrate monitoring equipment to ensure the accuracy of monitoring data.
    • Timely handle equipment failures, replace damaged parts, and ensure normal equipment operation (6).
  5. Equipment Updating:
    • According to equipment service life and technological development, regularly update monitoring equipment to ensure the advancement and reliability of monitoring technology (6).

5.1.2 Data Collection and Processing Process

The data collection and processing process for Zhongshan City's river water quality monitoring system follows these steps:

  1. Data Collection:
    • Monitoring equipment automatically collects water quality parameter data at set time intervals (every 4 hours).
    • Collected data includes 9 indicators such as COD, ammonia nitrogen, total phosphorus, total nitrogen, and surface water five parameters (6).
  2. Data Transmission:
    • Collected data is transmitted to the water environment comprehensive management platform in real-time through wireless communication networks.
    • Data encryption technology is used during transmission to ensure data security and integrity (6).
  3. Data Processing:
    • The platform automatically processes received data, including data verification, outlier processing, data complementation, etc.
    • Processed data is stored to form a historical database, providing data support for subsequent analysis and applications (6).
  4. Data Analysis:
    • The platform analyzes processed data, including statistical analysis, trend analysis, correlation analysis, etc.
    • Mathematical models are used for pollution source tracing and predictive analysis, providing support for management decisions (6).
  5. Data Application:
    • The platform presents analysis results in the form of charts, reports, etc., for managers to view and make decisions.
    • The platform realizes functions such as water quality early warning and forecasting, pollution source tracing, assessment and ranking, video online monitoring, data sharing and release (6).

5.1.3 Anomaly Handling and Emergency Response Process

The anomaly handling and emergency response process for Zhongshan City's river water quality monitoring system follows these steps:

  1. Anomaly Identification:
    • The platform automatically identifies water quality anomalies according to preset thresholds and rules.
    • The system can identify multiple anomalies such as water quality parameter exceedances, data loss, equipment failures, etc (6).
  2. Anomaly Alarm:
    • Once anomalies are identified, the platform automatically sends alarm signals to notify relevant managers.
    • Alarm methods include platform pop-ups, text messages, emails, etc., ensuring timely notification of relevant personnel (6).
  3. Anomaly Confirmation:
    • After receiving the alarm, managers should promptly confirm the anomaly situation and judge the nature and severity of the anomaly.
    • When necessary, dispatch personnel to the site for verification and sampling analysis to confirm the cause of the anomaly (6).
  4. Emergency Handling:
    • According to the nature and severity of the anomaly, activate corresponding emergency handling plans.
    • Handling measures include pollution source investigation, emergency interception, water quality improvement, etc., to ensure water environment safety (6).
  5. Handling Feedback:
    • After handling is completed, promptly feedback handling results to the platform and update the anomaly handling status.
    • Record and summarize the handling process to provide experience reference for subsequent similar incidents (6).
  6. Tracking Monitoring:
    • Continue to monitor the affected area to ensure water quality returns to normal.
    • Analyze the cause of the anomaly and propose preventive measures to avoid similar incidents from occurring again (6).

5.2 Pipe Network Monitoring and Management Operation Process

5.2.1 Pipe Network Monitoring System Construction Process

The construction process for Zhongshan City's drainage pipe network monitoring system follows these steps:

  1. Demand Analysis and Planning:
    • Conduct research and analysis on the current situation of Zhongshan City's drainage pipe network to clarify monitoring needs and objectives.
    • Develop monitoring system construction plans, determine monitoring point layout, equipment selection, and system architecture (9).
  2. Equipment Procurement and Installation:
    • According to planning requirements, procure monitoring equipment for water quality, water level, flow, etc.
    • Install monitoring equipment at key nodes of the drainage pipe network, including inspection wells, drainage outlets, pump stations, etc.
    • Conduct equipment debugging and calibration to ensure normal operation (9).
  3. System Integration and Debugging:
    • Integrate monitoring equipment with data transmission systems and smart drainage platforms.
    • Conduct system integration debugging to ensure data transmission stability and accuracy.
    • Test system functions to ensure they meet design requirements (9).
  4. Data Integration and Analysis:
    • Integrate approximately 2,700 kilometers of drainage pipe network investigation data in the central city area, as well as operation data from Zhongjia and Zhenjiashan sewage treatment plants and 96 pump gate stations.
    • Establish a drainage pipe network database to provide data support for pipe network management.
    • Develop data analysis models to achieve evaluation and prediction of pipe network operation status (9).
  5. System Acceptance and Delivery:
    • Organize relevant departments to conduct system acceptance to ensure the system meets design requirements and usage needs.
    • Complete system delivery and conduct operation training to ensure managers can skillfully use the system (9).

5.2.2 Pipe Network Operation Management Process

The operation management process for Zhongshan City's drainage pipe network follows these steps:

  1. Data Collection and Monitoring:
    • The smart drainage platform collects data on pipe network water level, flow, water quality and other parameters in real-time.
    • The platform achieves "one-platform" comprehensive review, 24-hour continuous monitoring of drainage "plant, station, network" data.
    • Managers monitor pipe network operation status in real-time through the platform and promptly discover anomalies (9).
  2. Daily Inspection and Maintenance:
    • Develop pipe network inspection plans and regularly inspect and maintain pipe networks.
    • Use handheld terminals combined with mobile GIS to carry out pipe network inspection work.
    • Timely handle pipe network blockages, leaks and other issues to ensure normal pipe network operation (9).
  3. Anomaly Handling and Repair:
    • When the platform monitors pipe network anomalies, it automatically sends alarm signals.
    • Managers promptly dispatch personnel to the site for handling based on alarm information.
    • Repair or replace damaged pipe networks to ensure safe pipe network operation (9).
  4. Scheduling Decision-making and Optimization:
    • The platform integrates real-time rainfall, rainfall forecast, pipe network water level data and video monitoring information, providing data support for scheduling decisions.
    • Use model simulation technology to conduct simulation analysis of pipe network operation and optimize scheduling plans.
    • Adjust pump station operation, intercepting well control, etc. according to analysis results to achieve optimal operation of the pipe network system (9).
  5. Evaluation and Improvement:
    • Regularly evaluate the operation of the pipe network and analyze existing problems and deficiencies.
    • Propose improvement measures based on evaluation results to optimize pipe network management strategies.
    • Continuously improve pipe network monitoring and management systems to improve pipe network operation efficiency and safety (9).

5.2.3 Pipe Network Emergency Handling Process

The emergency handling process for Zhongshan City's drainage pipe network follows these steps:

  1. Emergency Early Warning:
    • The platform monitors pipe network operation status in real-time and automatically sends early warning signals when anomalies are detected.
    • The platform can predict water accumulation risks in advance and provide early warning information for emergency handling (9).
  2. Emergency Response:
    • After receiving early warning information, immediately activate corresponding emergency response plans.
    • Dispatch flood control emergency personnel, vehicles, materials and other resources to rush to the scene quickly.
    • Monitor on-site conditions in real-time through the platform and guide emergency handling work (9).
  3. On-site Handling:
    • Drain and rescue water accumulation areas, and use temporary drainage equipment if necessary.
    • Urgently repair damaged pipe networks to ensure safe pipe network operation.
    • Clean debris and sediment in the pipe network to restore pipe network drainage capacity (9).
  4. Information Reporting and Release:
    • Timely report emergency handling progress and results to higher-level departments.
    • Release emergency handling information through the platform to notify relevant departments and the public.
    • Ensure information is timely, accurate and transparent (9).
  5. Post-event Evaluation and Summary:
    • Evaluate the emergency handling process and summarize experiences and lessons learned.
    • Analyze problems and deficiencies in emergency handling and propose improvement measures.
    • Update emergency plans to improve emergency handling capabilities and levels (9).

5.3 Wastewater Treatment Plant Intelligence Operation Process

5.3.1 Wastewater Treatment Plant Intelligent Control System Operation Process

The operation process for Zhongshan City's wastewater treatment plant intelligent control system follows these steps:

  1. Parameter Setting and Optimization:
    • According to wastewater treatment process requirements, set operation parameters for each treatment unit, such as water level, flow, dissolved oxygen, sludge concentration, etc.
    • Use intelligent algorithms to optimize parameters and balance treatment effects and energy consumption (9).
  2. Automatic Control and Regulation:
    • The system automatically controls the operation of equipment in each treatment unit based on set parameters and real-time monitoring data.
    • For example, adjust aeration volume, sludge return ratio and other parameters according to influent water quality and quantity to ensure stable treatment effects (9).
  3. Real-time Monitoring and Alarm:
    • The system monitors various parameters in the wastewater treatment process in real-time, such as water quality indicators, equipment operation status, etc.
    • When anomalies are detected, the system automatically sends alarm signals to notify operators (9).
  4. Remote Monitoring and Operation:
    • Operators can view the operation status of wastewater treatment plants in real-time through remote monitoring systems.
    • Operators can remotely control equipment start/stop and parameter adjustment to achieve unmanned 或少人值守 (9).
  5. Data Analysis and Decision Support:
    • The system analyzes and mines monitoring data to generate operation reports and trend analyses.
    • Based on data analysis results, provide decision support for managers to optimize wastewater treatment processes and operation strategies (9).

5.3.2 Wastewater Treatment Plant Intelligent Operation and Maintenance Management Process

The intelligent operation and maintenance management process for Zhongshan City's wastewater treatment plants follows these steps:

  1. Equipment Management:
    • Establish equipment files to record basic information, technical parameters, installation location, etc. of equipment.
    • Develop equipment maintenance plans and regularly inspect, maintain and repair equipment.
    • Use IoT technology to monitor equipment in real-time, predict equipment failures, and implement preventive maintenance (9).
  2. Energy Consumption Management:
    • Monitor energy consumption data in the wastewater treatment process, such as electricity consumption, chemical consumption, etc.
    • Analyze energy consumption distribution and change trends to identify high-energy consumption links and causes.
    • Develop energy-saving measures, optimize operation parameters, reduce energy consumption and operation costs (9).
  3. Water Quality Management:
    • Monitor influent and effluent water quality in real-time to ensure treatment effects meet discharge standards.
    • Analyze causes of water quality changes and promptly adjust treatment processes to respond to water quality fluctuations.
    • Establish a water quality early warning mechanism and promptly take measures when water quality is abnormal to prevent excessive discharge (9).
  4. Safety Management:
    • Monitor the safety status of wastewater treatment plants, including gas concentration, equipment operation status, etc.
    • Develop safety emergency plans and regularly conduct safety drills to improve emergency response capabilities.
    • Ensure safe production and stable operation of wastewater treatment plants (9).
  5. Performance Evaluation:
    • Establish an operation performance evaluation index system to evaluate treatment effects, energy consumption, costs, etc. of wastewater treatment plants.
    • Based on evaluation results, summarize experiences and lessons, propose improvement measures, and continuously improve management levels (9).

5.3.3 Wastewater Treatment Plant Intelligent Scheduling Process

The intelligent scheduling process for Zhongshan City's wastewater treatment plants follows these steps:

  1. Data Collection and Analysis:
    • Collect data on influent water quality, water quantity, meteorology, etc., and conduct analysis and prediction.
    • Predict changes in influent water quality and quantity and provide a basis for scheduling decisions (9).
  2. Scheduling Plan Generation:
    • Generate multiple scheduling plans according to prediction results and treatment objectives.
    • Use model simulation technology to conduct simulation analysis of each plan and evaluate treatment effects and energy consumption (9).
  3. Scheduling Decision-making:
    • Compare and evaluate each scheduling plan and select the optimal plan.
    • Consider treatment effects, energy consumption, costs and other factors to ensure the comprehensive benefits of scheduling plans are maximized (9).
  4. Scheduling Implementation:
    • Send scheduling instructions to each treatment unit and equipment to ensure implementation of scheduling plans.
    • Monitor scheduling implementation in real-time and promptly adjust and optimize scheduling plans (9).
  5. Effect Evaluation:
    • Evaluate scheduling effects and analyze changes in indicators such as treatment effects, energy consumption, and costs.
    • Based on evaluation results, summarize experiences and lessons to provide references for subsequent scheduling decisions (9).

VI. Smart Water Management Application Standards and Specifications

6.1 Relevant National Standards

The application of smart water management technology in Zhongshan City's Central Group Black-Odor Water Bodies Remediation Project follows these relevant national standards:

  1. Technical Standard for Smart Water Management:
    • This standard specifies the technical requirements for planning, design, construction, acceptance and operation of smart water management projects, applicable to urban water supply, urban water environment and drainage (rainwater) waterlogging prevention and other fields.
    • The standard clearly defines the overall objectives of smart water management: adhere to the principles of being industry-oriented, supporting government, and serving society, make full use of big data, cloud computing, artificial intelligence and other new generation information technologies, deeply integrate with water affairs business, continuously promote innovative development and upgrading of the water industry, realize data resourceization, management digitization, control intelligence, decision-making wisdom of urban water affairs, in order to support more efficient operation, more scientific management, and better service quality of the water industry (9).
  2. 14th Five-Year Plan for Urban Wastewater Treatment and Resource Utilization Development:
    • This plan requires that more than 90% of large and medium-sized wastewater treatment plants complete digital transformation by 2025, and build an intelligent supervision system covering the entire process of "influent-treatment-discharge".
    • The plan proposes requirements for full-process digital management and control, providing a policy basis for the intelligent transformation of Zhongshan City's wastewater treatment plants (9).
  3. Guidelines for Smart Water Management Construction (2023 Edition):
    • Issued by the Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development, this guideline specifies technical specifications for digital twin systems, including modeling accuracy (BIM+GIS error ≤0.1%), data real-time performance (delay <1 second) and other hard indicators.
    • The guideline provides technical guidance for the construction of smart water management systems in Zhongshan City (9).
  4. Technical Code for Inspection and Assessment of Urban Drainage Pipelines (CJJ 181-2012):
    • This code specifies methods, equipment and assessment standards for inspection of urban drainage pipelines, providing a technical basis for inspection and assessment of drainage pipelines in Zhongshan City (9).
  5. Technical Specification for Non-destructive Repair and Renewal of Urban Drainage Pipelines (CJJ/T 210-2014):
    • This specification specifies technical requirements and construction processes for non-destructive repair technologies of drainage pipelines, including various repair methods for ring stoppers, providing technical guidance for pipeline repair in Zhongshan City (9).

6.2 Local Standards and Specifications

In the process of promoting the application of smart water management technology, Zhongshan City has also followed these local standards and specifications:

  1. Technical Provisions for Construction, Inspection and Repair of Drainage Pipelines in Zhongshan City (Trial):
    • Combined with the actual situation of Zhongshan City, this provision puts forward specific requirements for the construction, inspection and repair of drainage pipelines, including material selection, construction technology and acceptance standards for long outlets and ring stoppers (9).
  2. Measures for the Administration of In-river Drainage Outlets in Zhongshan City:
    • This measure specifies the requirements for the setting, management and supervision of in-river drainage outlets, providing a system guarantee for the standardized construction of drainage outlets in Zhongshan City (9).
  3. Technical Specifications for River Water Quality Automatic Monitoring Platform in Zhongshan City:
    • This specification specifies the construction, operation and maintenance requirements for river water quality automatic monitoring platforms, providing technical basis for the construction of water quality monitoring systems in Zhongshan City (6).
  4. Technical Specifications for Smart Drainage Platform Construction in Zhongshan City:
    • This specification specifies the functional requirements, technical architecture, data standards and security guarantees for smart drainage platforms, providing technical guidance for the construction of smart drainage platforms in Zhongshan City (9).

6.3 Smart Water Management Data Standards

Smart water management applications in Zhongshan City follow these data standards:

  1. Smart Water Management Data Standard:
    • This standard specifies the classification, coding, format and quality requirements for smart water management data, ensuring data consistency and interoperability.
    • The standard requires that smart water management data follow the principle of "who produces, who is responsible", and establish a combined top-down and bottom-up data update work mechanism (9).
  2. Technical Requirements for Data Elements of Water Supply and Drainage Facilities (GB/T 36625.5):
    • This standard specifies the technical requirements for data elements of water supply and drainage facilities, providing a standard basis for data collection and management of smart water management systems in Zhongshan City (9).
  3. Data Coding Specification for Water Supply and Drainage Facilities (GB/T 36625.2):
    • This standard specifies the coding specifications for water supply and drainage facilities data, providing a standard basis for data coding and exchange of smart water management systems in Zhongshan City (9).
  4. Data Quality Evaluation Indicators (GB/T 36344):
    • This standard specifies the evaluation indicators and methods for data quality, providing a standard basis for data quality management of smart water management systems in Zhongshan City (9).

6.4 Smart Water Management Security Standards

Smart water management applications in Zhongshan City follow these security standards:

  1. Information Security Technology Network Security Level Protection Basic Requirements (GB/T 22239):
    • This standard specifies the basic requirements for network security level protection, providing a standard basis for the security guarantee of smart water management systems in Zhongshan City (9).
  2. Information Security Technology Network Security Level Protection Assessment Requirements (GB/T 28448):
    • This standard specifies the assessment requirements for network security level protection, providing a standard basis for security assessment of smart water management systems in Zhongshan City (9).
  3. Information Security Technology Network Security Level Protection Security Design Technical Requirements (GB/T 25070):
    • This standard specifies the technical requirements for security design of network security level protection, providing a standard basis for security design of smart water management systems in Zhongshan City (9).
  4. Technical Requirements for Video Surveillance Systems (GB/T 28181):
    • This standard specifies the technical requirements for video surveillance systems, providing a standard basis for the video surveillance part of smart water management systems in Zhongshan City (9).

Zhongshan City strictly follows the above standards and specifications in the process of promoting smart water management technology applications, ensuring the standardization, reliability and security of the system. At the same time, Zhongshan City has also developed a series of local standards and specifications combined with local actual conditions, providing more specific guidance for smart water management applications (6).

VII. Conclusion and Recommendations

7.1 Summary of Smart Water Management Application Results

The application of smart water management technology in Zhongshan City's Central Group Black-Odor Water Bodies Remediation Project has achieved remarkable results:

  1. Water Quality Improvement: Through the application of smart water management technology, the water quality of rivers in Zhongshan City has improved significantly. The water quality index of inland rivers in the city has improved by 48% compared with 2021, and the black-odor phenomenon has been basically eliminated (6).
  2. Management Efficiency Improvement: The application of smart drainage platforms allows staff to clearly understand the operation status of drainage pipelines, pump stations, sewage treatment plants and other facilities in the jurisdiction, greatly improving work efficiency. After using the platform, the number of water accumulation incidents in the area has significantly decreased by 75% despite increased rainfall compared to previous years (9).
  3. Operating Cost Reduction: Through intelligent transformation and optimized operation, energy consumption and chemical consumption of sewage treatment plants and pump stations have been reduced, and labor costs have been decreased. For example, through the transformation of pump stations in urban areas of Zhongshan City, pipe network IoT monitoring, and the development of computer vision-based intelligent identification technology for drainage facility status, 30% of drainage facility operation and maintenance and emergency response personnel can be reduced (9).
  4. Decision Support Enhancement: The smart water management system, through integration of multi-source data, establishment of model simulation and data analysis platform, provides scientific basis for management decisions. For example, the platform integrates real-time rainfall, rainfall forecast, pipe network water level data and video monitoring information, truly achieving "one map" for emergency operations, which can visually query flood prevention real-time information such as rainwater conditions, personnel and equipment distribution, and water accumulation situations, providing powerful data support for precise flood prevention (9).
  5. Emergency Response Enhancement: The smart water management system has realized real-time monitoring and intelligent early warning of the drainage system, improving emergency response capabilities. For example, Zhongshan City's smart drainage platform closely collaborates with public security departments, uses camera networks to immediately grasp road water accumulation conditions, and quickly mobilizes patrol vehicles for emergency response, playing an important disaster prevention role (9).

7.2 Smart Water Management Application Experience Insights

The application of smart water management technology in Zhongshan City's Central Group Black-Odor Water Bodies Remediation Project provides the following experience insights:

  1. Top-level Design is the Prerequisite: Smart water management construction requires strengthening top-level design, overall planning, and ensuring the integrity and coordination of the system. Through the establishment of a municipal water treatment command headquarters, Zhongshan City has broken the dilemma of "nine dragons governing water", injecting sustainable development momentum into the water pollution control battle (6).
  2. Data Integration is the Foundation: The core of smart water management lies in data integration and application. Through the integration of approximately 2,700 kilometers of drainage pipe network investigation data in the central city area, as well as operation data of Zhongjia and Zhenjiashan sewage treatment plants and 96 pump gate stations, Zhongshan City has achieved "one-platform" comprehensive review and 24-hour continuous monitoring of drainage "plant, station, network" data (9).
  3. Technological Innovation is the Driving Force: Smart water management construction needs to continuously promote technological innovation and apply advanced technologies such as IoT, big data, artificial intelligence, and digital twin. By building an intelligent water resource analysis hub, integrating multi-source data from water affairs, environmental protection, meteorology and other fields, Zhongshan City has constructed a unified city-wide water resource analysis platform. Using AI's data mining and analysis capabilities, it dynamically analyzes water quality change patterns, pollution diffusion paths and supply-demand contradictions, and generates real-time early warnings and treatment recommendations (6).
  4. Mechanism Innovation is the Guarantee: Smart water management construction needs to innovate management mechanisms, break down departmental barriers, and achieve collaborative governance. Through exploration of the "factory-network-river integration" whole-element water management mechanism, Zhongshan City has deepened the full coverage operation and maintenance model of drainage plant networks, integrated pipe network data, sewage outlet monitoring and sewage treatment plant operation information, and constructed an intelligent water network to achieve precise scheduling and risk early warning (9).
  5. Talent Cultivation is the Key: Smart water management construction needs to cultivate high-quality professional talents to provide talent guarantee for system construction and operation. Through strengthening cooperation with universities and research institutions, Zhongshan City has cultivated a group of compound talents familiar with both water affairs business and information technology, providing talent support for smart water management construction (6).

7.3 Future Development Recommendations

Based on the application experience of smart water management technology in Zhongshan City's Central Group Black-Odor Water Bodies Remediation Project, the following future development recommendations are put forward:

  1. Deepen Smart Water Management Applications: Further expand the application scope of smart water management technology, extend the achievements of smart drainage platforms to all towns and streets in the city, and realize intelligent and refined management of water affairs throughout the city (6).
  2. Strengthen Data Sharing and Collaboration: Break down data barriers between departments, strengthen data sharing and business collaboration among water affairs, environmental protection, meteorology, municipal administration and other departments, and build a more complete smart water management system (9).
  3. Promote Technological Innovation and Application: Strengthen cooperation with universities, research institutions and enterprises, promote innovative applications of IoT, big data, artificial intelligence, digital twin and other technologies in the water affairs field, and improve the technical level of smart water management (6).
  4. Improve the Standardization System: Further improve the standardization system of smart water management, ensure the standardization, reliability and security of the system, and provide standard support for smart water management construction (9).
  5. Strengthen Talent Cultivation and Introduction: Strengthen the cultivation and introduction of smart water management professionals, establish and improve talent cultivation mechanisms, and provide talent guarantee for smart water management construction (6).
  6. Promote Public Participation: Through information disclosure and public participation, increase public awareness and participation in water environment, and form a good atmosphere of whole society participating in water environment governance (6).
  7. Promote Market-oriented Operation: Explore market-oriented mechanisms for smart water management construction and operation, attract social capital to participate in smart water management construction, and improve the sustainable development ability of smart water management (9).

The application of smart water management technology in Zhongshan City's Central Group Black-Odor Water Bodies Remediation Project has provided strong support for water environment governance in Zhongshan City, and has also provided useful reference for water environment governance in other regions. In the future, with the continuous progress of technology and deepening of application, smart water management will play a more important role in water environment governance (6).

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[43] Unraveling the Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic Dynamics on Commercial Water-Use Variation https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/Unraveling-the-Impact-of-COVID-19-Pandemic-Dynamics-Shu-Liu/a78450507193b772861ceaca531a64b45c0795dd

[44] 中国主持的1项ISO铁路国际标准正式发布实施 https://m.zhangqiaokeyan.com/academic-journal-cn_environmental-technology_thesis/02012157733186.html

[45] Uncharted Interplay and Troubled Implementation: Managing Hydropower’s Environmental Impacts under the EU Water Framework and Environmental Liability Directives https://academic.oup.com/jel/article/36/1/43/7289615

[46] 2024年12月—2025年1月ISO发布船海国际标准汇总 http://d.wanfangdata.com.cn/periodical/jcbzhgcs202502003

[47] IoT-Based Smart Water Leak Detection System for a Sustainable Future: A Case Study https://www.taylorfrancis.com/chapters/edit/10.1201/9781003468592-4/iot-based-smart-water-leak-detection-system-sustainable-future-case-study-kian-hariri-asli

[48] 田世宏参加国际标准化组织第124届理事会会议 https://m.zhangqiaokeyan.com/academic-journal-cn_railway-quality-control_thesis/02012159722939.html

[49] Will Europe’s next crisis be a water crisis? https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/17816858231207584

[50] 2024年三季度ISO农药创新总结 http://m.qikan.cqvip.com/Article/ArticleDetail?id=7113577237

[51] Water governance diversity across Europe: Does legacy generate sticking points in implementing multi-level governance? https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35809541/

[52] Design of Smart Solar Water Pumping-Case study https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/Design-of-Smart-Solar-Water-Pumping-Case-study-Ali-Saady/dbfa14fde4d731e53bcaae972a7707f264e7ac95

[53] 田世宏出席国际标准化组织(ISO)第45届大会 https://m.zhangqiaokeyan.com/academic-journal-cn_railway-quality-control_thesis/02012102226368.html

[54] Two decades of the EU Water Framework Directive: Evidence of success and failure from a lowland arable catchment (River Wensum, UK) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36709887/

[55] The next step: integrating economics into Water Framework Directive programmes of measures https://www.taylorfrancis.com/chapters/edit/10.1201/9781003209386-6/next-step-integrating-economics-water-framework-directive-programmes-measures-blacklocke-rosenberg-hooper-stachow

[56] ISO新任主席 曹诚焕致辞 https://m.zhangqiaokeyan.com/academic-journal-cn_china-standardization_thesis/02012154288551.html

[57] Moving forward to achieve the ambitions of the European Water Framework Directive: Lessons learned from the Netherlands https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36764178/

[58] 在FERC未能采取行动后,ISO-NE冬季燃料安全计划生效 https://m.zhangqiaokeyan.com/academic-journal-foreign_nucleonics-week_thesis/0204119811660.html

[59] What is the deal with the Green Deal: Will the new strategy help to improve European freshwater quality beyond the Water Framework Directive? https://www.mendeley.com/catalogue/33085253-503b-3615-8ebd-9852832c27d5/

THE END