Statistical Evaluation of Hungarian Drinking Water Networks within the Framework of Critical Infrastructure Protection

Abstract

Water utility networks are part of the nation's critical infrastructure, meaning their condition and operational reliability directly impact the security of supply for the population. Therefore, their maintenance, continuous development, and protection are among the key tasks of critical infrastructure management. In my analysis, I used data series from the Hungarian Central Statistical Office spanning 1990 to 2023, examining key indicators such as connection rate, per capita water consumption, the proportion of household consumption, network length per dwelling, and pipe break frequency. Using utility gap indicators, I also mapped the disparities in the development of water and wastewater networks. The results show that although national coverage is high, the technical condition of the networks poses significant challenges. Aging asbestos-cement pipe sections, increasing pipe break rates, and exceptionally high network losses—exceeding 60% in some systems—urgently call for targeted reconstruction interventions. The regional differences identified in the analysis are also relevant for disaster management planning. Based on the findings, I formulated recommendations for the strategic development of the water utility sector, particularly in the areas of emergency prevention, the implementation of digital monitoring systems, and the protection of water resources.