This article describes the development and evaluation of a novel piped-water treatment system, which combines centralized and point-of-use components. Such system is able to provide potable tap water to all the households in a rural community in Chiapas, Mexico, at a relatively low capital and operating cost. Our system consists of centralized filtration and chlorination, as well as household-level dechlorination and safe storage. This arrangement allows for a chlorine residual to be maintained through the distribution network while avoiding potential discontent from users associated with chlorine taste and odor in the water. It also eases the operator's job and widens the safe chlorine dosing margin, thus increasing water safety and sustainability. We conducted a water quality assessment for the system, including measurements of turbidity, chlorine concentration and removal, disinfection by-products, and microbiological quality, with satisfactory results. The main objectives of improving water quality, maintaining a chlorine residual, and avoiding taste and odor issues for users were achieved. As such we consider this pilot to be successful as a proof of concept with potential to be replicated in the future.
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