Working-Level Staff from 5 Cities Visit Tokyo: Insights into Water Supply, Sewerage Facilities, and Training Centers

Participants received a briefing about on the Minamisuna Stormwater Storage Tank.

As part of a G-NETS joint project, representatives from five cities participated in a two-day site visit program on December 5–6 in 2024, hosted by Tokyo Metropolitan Government (TMG), focusing on water supply and sewerage facilities. Participants experienced hands-on training at two training centers, recognizing the importance of well-structured training programs and advanced facilities. Discussions were held after the tours to share insights on common urban challenges.

Shared Challenges

Key Site Visits

[December 5, 2024]

・Sewerage Technology Training Center

Staff at TMG’s Bureau of Sewerage introduced the SPR (Sewerage Pipe Renewal) method for extending the lifespan of sewer pipes without extensive roadwork. Participants experienced use of operation simulating equipment, manhole replicas, and more, learning about emergency response and safety measures during heavy rain events.

・Sunamachi Wastewater Treatment Center

A facility that processes wastewater from a 6,153-hectare area before discharging it into Tokyo Bay.

・Minamisuna Stormwater Storage Tank

A regulating reservoir built in Koto City, an area that has experienced repeated flooding in the past. It can store up to 25,000 ㎥ of rainwater, helping to mitigate flood damage. Participants showed significant interest in the effective use of space above the underground reservoir, where public facilities such as residential complexes have been constructed.

Participants observed the effects of the Water Surface Control Device.

Participants monitoring water level changes in a simulation.

[December 6, 2024]

・Kinuta Purification Plant

A membrane filtration facility, one of the most advanced in the country, with the capacity to produce 40,000 ㎥ of drinking water per day, was introduced. Tokyo’s exceptionally low water leakage rate—just over 3% of the city’s annual water distribution—was highlighted as a leading standard.

・Training and Technical Development Center, TMG Bureau of Waterworks

A facility that welcomes trainees from overseas, providing specialized water management training. In the afternoon, participants engaged in water leakage detection training using acoustic rods and electronic leakage detectors, emphasizing the skill and experience required for accurate leak identification. They also discussed leak prevention measures extensively. Instructors highlighted the importance of not only advanced equipment but also well-designed training programs that encourage active and practical learning.

Participants practiced leak prevention drills, training to identify distinct sounds from different pipe materials.

Both water supply and sewerage facility maintenance and upgrades emerged as shared challenges across participating cities. The discussions underscored the importance of ongoing communication and collaborative efforts to adopt best practices, not only in public infrastructure but also through private sector partnerships.

Participating Cities

Davao, Istanbul, New Taipei, São Paulo, Ulaanbaatar (Alphabetical Order)

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