Integrated management and modelling in urban drainage systems: the potentialities in a developing megacity

In developing countries, lack of sanitation coverage and continuously growing populations are increasing the pressures on receiving waters. In the context of Bogota (Colombia), this paper presents recent and ongoing research towards improved management of urban drainage systems using an integrated framework. Research results have shown there is a need to assess the urban drainage system as one entity when considering pollution control objectives. This holistic approach offers the opportunity to investigate the interactions between sub-systems and the impact of the whole system on the river water quality. In Bogota, now is the time to develop plans towards an efficient integrated system which maximises the benefits from the resources, supporting data and software tools available. It is needed the development and application of modelling tools at different levels of detail. As part of this, an integrated modelling toolbox named City Drain which operates under MATLAB/Simulink is being upgraded, customised and used as a research tool.