Domestic water consumption pattern by urban households

Abstract. Water has been recognized as one of the most significant natural resources and crucial for health and wealth. The increased demand for water has imposed pressure on the water supply system, which has led to environmental problems such as over-exploitation of water resources and breaks in the balance of the ecosystem. Determining the behavior of domestic water consumers can facilitate a more proactive approach to water demand management, and serves as the foundation for the development of any intervention strategies that seek to bring about sustained and substantial reductions in domestic water consumption. This study tried to investigate household water consumption patterns and management practices along with comparing the effectiveness of different water management measures on reducing the water deficit of the district. The primary data was collected through a questionnaire survey from 75 households belonging to the urban area in Batticaloa District in Manmunai Pattu, Sri Lanka. The data were analyzed both quantitatively and qualitatively. The findings show that people with higher incomes in urban areas are using more water than people with lower incomes. The water usage depends on the living standards, family size, age, and education level of household members and the number of taps present in the household. It is believed that the results of the study would be beneficial for domestic water consumption in urban Batticaloa.