Technical, Environmental, and Managerial Assessment of the Urban Wastewater System in Ilam with Emphasis on Infrastructure and Operational Challenges

Document Type : Original Article

Author
Yaghoub Moradi
Department of Geography and Urban Planning, University of Payame Noor, Tehran, Iran.
10.22034/he.2026.243147
Abstract
This study aims to evaluate the technical, environmental, and managerial aspects of the urban wastewater system in Ilam, with an emphasis on infrastructural and operational challenges. Due to population growth, rapid urban development, deterioration of parts of the collection network, limited wastewater treatment capacity, and Ilam’s cold climatic conditions, urban wastewater management in the city faces significant challenges. The findings indicate that low temperatures reduce the efficiency of biological treatment processes, particularly BOD removal, while the aging sewer network increases the risk of wastewater leakage and contamination of surface and groundwater resources. Moreover, the combined sewer system and the inflow of stormwater during heavy rainfall place additional pressure on transmission lines and treatment facilities. The study proposes solutions such as rehabilitation of deteriorated sewer networks, application of cold-resistant treatment technologies, separation of wastewater from stormwater, implementation of smart monitoring systems, and reuse of treated effluent for agriculture and urban green spaces. Overall, improving wastewater infrastructure and adopting integrated management approaches can significantly reduce pollution, protect water resources, and support sustainable urban development in Ilam. 

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Human Ecology
Volume 4, Issue 13
Winter 2026
Pages 1958-1973