Analysis of a multipurpose water resource system in southeastern Mexico.

Abstract

Justification for the construction of water resource projects in developing countries has been traditionally based on benefit-cost analysis. This dissertation focuses on the standardized cost-effectiveness analysis for the planning, design and operation of water resource projects in developing countries and in particular southeastern Mexico. The "best" system is determined in terms of goals which reflect the physical, economic and social conditions of the region. The planning process starts by identifying goals which the water resource system or systems are desired to meet. These goals are then mapped into specifications in which the project needs are represented. Next, criteria or measures of effectiveness relating specifications to system capabilities are defined. These criteria are quantitative and qualitative. District alternative systems to meet the goals are defined and then their capabilities in terms of the measures of effectiveness are determined. The alternatives are then compared using both quantitative and qualitative measures of effectiveness. Then, using either a fixed-cost or fixed-effectiveness approach, the alternative system which most nearly satisfies the desired goals is selected. This study uses a real water resource system from which real decisions will be made. The methodology suggests improved ways of defining goals and criteria in developing countries and sets forth a concise framework upon which developing countries may base future water resource planning, design and operation.