From Reservoirs to Smart Grids: Using AI to Predict Water Demand and Supply from the Siruvani and Pillur Schemes

Water security is one of the biggest challenges facing fast-growing cities today. In Coimbatore, the Siruvani and Pillur water schemes form the backbone of urban water supply. However, rising population, changing climate patterns, and uneven consumption are putting increasing pressure on these vital sources.

This is where AI water management in Coimbatore can play a transformative role by predicting water demand and optimising supply through intelligent, data-driven systems.

Understanding Coimbatore’s Water Supply System

Coimbatore primarily relies on two major water sources:

• Siruvani Water Scheme, known for its high-quality drinking water
• Pillur Water Scheme, a large surface water source supporting urban expansion

While these schemes have served the city for decades, traditional water management methods often depend on fixed schedules and historical averages. As a result, they struggle to respond to sudden demand spikes or prolonged dry periods.

What Is AI Water Management?

AI water management uses machine learning algorithms, predictive analytics, and real-time data to forecast water demand and manage supply efficiently.

By analysing factors such as:

• Historical water consumption
• Rainfall and weather patterns
• Reservoir storage levels
• Population growth and seasonal trends

AI systems can predict when, where, and how much water will be required across the city.

How AI Can Improve the Siruvani and Pillur Schemes

1. Accurate Demand Forecasting

AI models can predict daily, weekly, and seasonal water demand. This helps authorities plan water releases from the Siruvani and Pillur reservoirs more effectively, reducing shortages during peak summer months.

2. Smarter Reservoir Operations

With AI-based insights, reservoir managers can:

• Optimise storage during monsoon seasons
• Prevent overflow and wastage
• Prepare early for drought conditions

This ensures long-term sustainability of both Siruvani and Pillur water sources.

3. Reducing Water Loss and Leakage

By integrating sensors across pipelines and pumping stations, AI can detect unusual pressure changes and potential leaks. Early identification helps reduce non-revenue water and improves overall system efficiency.

Building a Smart Water Grid in Coimbatore

A smart water grid connects reservoirs, treatment plants, pipelines, and consumers into a single intelligent network. With AI water management in Coimbatore, supply from Siruvani and Pillur can be dynamically balanced based on real-time demand.

This approach allows the city to move away from fixed supply schedules towards adaptive and responsive water distribution.

Benefits for Citizens and Industries

For residents

• More reliable water supply
• Fewer emergency shortages
• Improved water quality monitoring

For industries

• Predictable water availability
• Better production planning
• Reduced dependence on private water sources

Overall, AI-driven systems improve transparency, efficiency, and trust in public water services.

Challenges in Implementing AI-Driven Water Systems

Despite its potential, AI adoption requires:

• Investment in data and sensor infrastructure
• Integration with legacy water systems
• Skilled professionals for system management
• Inter-departmental coordination

However, phased implementation and smart city partnerships can help overcome these challenges.

A Smarter Water Future for Coimbatore

As Coimbatore continues to grow, relying solely on traditional water management will no longer be sufficient. By adopting AI water management in Coimbatore, the city can transform the Siruvani and Pillur schemes into a predictive, resilient, and sustainable water network.

This shift from reservoirs to smart grids can ensure water security for the next generation while supporting the city’s long-term development goals.