A steady flow of clean water is something most of us take for granted. But here at the Tatara Water Plant in Fukuoka, you can discover how this vital resource is delivered to the city. The Tatara Water Plant is a key part of Fukuoka’s waterworks system.
Fukuoka City has a fascinating history regarding water. Next year marks the 100th anniversary of the founding of Fukuoka City’s waterworks system. On March 1 1923, Fukuoka began supplying water to approximately 35000 people. This followed the completion of water supply facilities. These facilities included the Magaribuchi Dam and Hirao Water Treatment Plant. The Hirao Water Treatment Plant is now the Fukuoka City Botanical Garden.
Tap water was new to citizens then. The City used flyers to advertise its benefits. It would help prevent diseases like cholera and typhus. This was part of its effort to spread the word. They wanted to inform people about the safety and convenience of tap water.
Fukuoka City’s population grew rapidly after this. Fukuoka always had scarce water resources. There were no class A rivers within the city limits. Even though it built dams, the city could not keep up with the population increase. Major droughts occurred in 1978 and 1994. The 1978 drought resulted in 287 days of water rationing. This led Fukuoka City to set a goal. They wanted to become a water-saving city.
Fukuoka City achieved a leakage rate of 2.0%. This is one of the lowest in the world. They use a 24-hour control system. This ensures the effective use of tap water. Citizens have also become more conscious about water conservation. Each citizen uses approximately 200 liters of water per day. This is the lowest level for a city of Fukuoka’s size. In 1983, the city began drawing water from the Chikugo River. The Chikugo River is Kyushu’s largest river. Other efforts have been undertaken to secure water sources from outside the city.
In 2005, the Uminonakamichi Nata Seawater Desalination Center was completed. It’s also known as Mamizu Pier. It can produce up to 50000 m3 of water per day. This is one way Fukuoka City works to secure a stable water supply. Meanwhile, the Gokayama Dam was completed in 2021. It was the first dam in Japan designed to combat drought. It boasts the largest water storage capacity in Fukuoka Prefecture. It is expected to contribute to a stable water supply for years to come.
The Tatara Water Plant plays a crucial role in this system. It helps ensure that the city has access to clean and safe water. As you stand here, consider the journey of the water. It starts from the source, travels through treatment facilities, and finally arrives at our taps. This complex process is essential for public health and daily life.
The Tatara Water Plant is more than just a facility. It’s a symbol of Fukuoka’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. It represents the city’s dedication to providing its citizens with a reliable and safe water supply. Take a moment to appreciate the work that goes on behind the scenes here. It’s a testament to human ingenuity and the importance of responsible resource management.