Hydrogeological aspects of the municipal water supply of Albania; experience and problems

Abstract

The municipal water supply, mainly related with the cities, in Albanian began to develop in the second half of the 19th century and particularly after 1945. Today, the total capacity of water supply systems mainly for the citiescorresponds to an average rate about 300 l/day per capita. The territory of Albania consists of uneven distribution of very heterogeneous aquifers. In this article are classified and analyzed the water supply sources of the settlements, which are summarized in five groups: a) Wells in alluvial intergranular aquifers; b) karst springs; c) wells in karst aquifers; d) springs in fissured rocks, and e) mixed water sources like: karst springs, drilling wells and surface water. For each group of the water supply sources are analyzed the main concerns regarding the quantity and quality and many examples are given how are solved the problems. Beside this, some recommendations also are given for a sustainable groundwater water supply management, especially related to monitoring and control of the water supply systems and of the aquifers in general, emphasizing the transboundary aquifers as well as consequences of the climate changes. However, the main problems of public water supply of Albania remain the poor management of water supply systems which is reflected in the e high water losses, as well as the low public awareness of request for sustainable use.