Title: Criticality assessment model for water distribution networks

Authors: Ahmed Moursi; Samer El-Zahab; Tarek Zayed

Addresses: Department of Building, Civil and Environmental Engineering, Concordia University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada ' College of Engineering and Technology, American University of the Middle East, Egaila, 54200, Kuwait ' Department of Building and Real Estate, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hum, Hong Kong

Abstract: The Canadian Infrastructure Report Card of 2016 rates the water system as 'good', but with 29% of pipelines in fair to poor condition, demanding urgent repairs costing $60 billion. Municipalities struggle to prioritise asset rehabilitation due to financial constraints. This study aims to develop a criticality model for water pipeline prediction, integrating expert insights. Three dimensions - economic, environmental/operational, and social - are assessed using the paprika technique. Sensitivity analysis identifies key factors influencing criticality. The model combines criticality and performance indexes to form a priority index, aiding municipalities in strategic capital planning. By pinpointing critical areas requiring immediate attention, this model enhances infrastructure management decision making.

Keywords: assent management; risk management; paprika; criticality index.

DOI: 10.1504/IJCIS.2026.151574

International Journal of Critical Infrastructures, 2026 Vol.22 No.1, pp.59 - 91

Received: 13 Feb 2024
Accepted: 12 May 2024
Published online: 09 Feb 2026 *

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