Design of reinforced concrete water storage tank Case of Nyanza District Busasamana Sector

Abstract

The final year project titled “Design of Reinforced Concrete Water Storage Tank” addresses the pressing water shortage issue in Busasamana Sector, Nyanza District. This region currently suffers from inadequate and poorly maintained water storage facilities, which result in long travel distances and elevated costs for water procurement. The existing tanks are undersized and often exhibit unpleasant odors, underscoring the urgent need for a more effective solution. This project aims to identify the requirements for a new water storage tank, define the necessary capacity for the system, conduct an economic analysis of the proposed tank, and design a reinforced concrete water storage structure to replace or supplement the outdated tanks in Busasamana Sector. The research methodology involved engaging with local residents and experts in reinforced concrete water storage design through interviews, as well as conducting site visits by engineering students to collect data and assess current conditions. Analysis of surveys and data revealed a critical need for a new reinforced concrete water storage tank in Busasamana Sector. Currently, residents must travel 1-2 km and spend approximately two hours to collect water, incurring a cost of 70 RWF for just 20 liters. The study determined that a tank with a capacity of 2009m³ is essential to meet the daily water demands of the sector's population, which totals 50,661 people. The project successfully met its objectives by assessing the requirements, specifying the necessary capacity, performing an economic evaluation, and designing the water storage tank. The proposed reinforced concrete structure has the potential to significantly alleviate the water shortage issue in Busasamana Sector, enhancing access to clean water while reducing both travel time and associated costs for residents. It is recommended that the design for the 2009m³ reinforced concrete water storage tank be implemented to ensure a reliable water supply and improve the overall quality of life for the residents of Busasamana Sector.