Spatial Analysis and Optimization of Water Pipeline Distribution Networks in Maradun, Zamfara State

Inadequate water distribution infrastructure remains a major challenge to effective municipal planning and sustainable water supply in many developing regions. This study evaluates the existing water distribution pipeline infrastructure in Maradun, Zamfara State, Nigeria, and develops a geospatially optimized network expansion plan to address identified spatial and service-coverage deficiencies. Geographic Information System (GIS) techniques and spatial analysis were employed to map and assess key water infrastructure components, including the Bakolori Dam, centralized Water Treatment Plant (WTP), storage tanks, transmission lines, and existing distribution pipelines. The assessment revealed substantial spatial limitations in the existing distribution network, with pipeline coverage extending across only 1.00 km², equivalent to approximately 15% of the 5.53 km² metropolitan area. This limited coverage indicates significant disparities in access to municipal water infrastructure and highlights the need for systematic network expansion. Based on spatial optimization and infrastructure connectivity analysis, the study proposes an additional 28.648 km of distribution pipelines and 8.130 km of transmission lines to extend water services to currently underserved areas. The proposed geospatial network substantially improves the spatial reach and connectivity of the municipal water supply system and provides a practical framework for prioritizing infrastructure expansion. The study demonstrates the value of GIS-based spatial planning in identifying infrastructure gaps, optimizing pipeline networks, and supporting evidence-based decisions for sustainable urban water management. The proposed approach can serve as a scalable model for water infrastructure planning in Maradun and other rapidly developing communities in sub-Saharan Africa.