A project called "Smart Water Canal" is being implemented in Almaty, aimed at automating and digitizing all key aspects of water supply and wastewater management, reports a correspondent from the Kazinform agency.
This information was provided by the municipal enterprise "Almaty Su" in response to an official inquiry from the agency.
- Within the framework of the project, automation systems related to electricity accounting, billing, and document management have already been implemented. A specialized division has been created within the enterprise to service measuring devices and automate technological processes related to water production and distribution, as well as wastewater treatment, - the response stated.
According to the enterprise's data, in recent years, frequency-controlled drives have been introduced that operate in automatic mode, significantly increasing the energy efficiency of pumping stations.
Additionally, outdated protection systems for deep pumps with Soviet electronics have been replaced with modern equipment from various foreign manufacturers.
In particular, soft start and protection systems for pumps developed by well-known manufacturers in the field of industrial electronics have been installed.
Furthermore, the company announced plans to implement elements of artificial intelligence and "smart" networks as part of the development of the "Smart Water Canal" system.
- The use of Internet of Things (IoT) technologies and automated analytical systems will allow predicting leaks, pressure anomalies, and water consumption in the future, as well as optimizing water supply in real-time. Currently, we are in the preparation stage - infrastructure is being formed and equipment compatible with digital management systems is being implemented, - noted "Almaty Su".
From 2025 to 2027, the implementation of three main projects is planned:
- an automated control system for technological processes (ACS TP) at water intakes, pumping, and sewage stations;
- a consolidated balance system based on a digital twin;
- a resource management system for the enterprise based on "1C: ERP".
According to "Almaty Su", automation will reduce electricity consumption and equipment wear, decrease water losses and the number of accidents, improve the speed and quality of customer service, as well as optimize costs and staff numbers.
To accelerate digitalization, a Project Office has been established within the enterprise, working on tasks within the framework of national projects:
- a water supply project "Clean Water in Every Home," which includes a comprehensive program for the modernization of facilities and networks with the implementation of automation of technological processes;
- a sewage project "Clean Flow," aimed at the renovation, modernization, and technical re-equipment of the entire infrastructure of wastewater treatment facilities, taking into account the city's and agglomerations' development prospects.
These innovations will help ensure stable, high-quality, and safe water supply for the residents of Almaty.
It is also worth noting that active development of digital infrastructure continues in Almaty as part of the "smart city" concept.
As of today, more than 50,000 cameras are connected to the Unified Video Surveillance System platform, of which 2,200 have facial recognition capabilities.
