In the south-central Ecuadorian Andes ranging from an elevation of 2,300 meters (7,500 feet) to approximately 1,500 meters (5,000 feet) above sea level, the communities of Tambanal and Ayaloma have a combined population of over 150 spread through more than 35 homes. This community includes two schools, one serving each community. A majority of the families get their water from surface water and must carry it on a daily basis. The result of this is a number of preventable water born diseases that lead to reduced quality of life, reduced life span, and impact infant and child mortality.

The community has recently created a water board with the help of the local NGO, El Proyecto Socioambiental Dulcepamba. This is the group that initially reached out to EWB to propose a project, and are the community partner for the project.

Engineers Without Borders Pittsburgh Professional Chapter, has been working to build a water distribution and disinfection system for the communities of Tambanal and Ayaloma, Ecuador. In the past few years major progress has been made, including completing the mainline pipe system, a swale, and successfully getting water to the Tambanal School. The overall scope of this project includes:

1. Construct water capture structures at the three intakes (Parnasos 1, Parnasos 2, and Nos Aguas).

2. Install a chlorine based disinfection system to treat the water for pathogens.

3. Develop  a water transmission and distribution network between the disinfection system and community members.

4. Assemble of a series of pressure break tanks to aid in water distribution.

5. Refurbish the existing concrete storage tank for use in the new system.

The system will be constructed with the main line taking priority alongside the treatment infrastructure. Moving forward, laterals will be constructed off of the completed main line, with the goal of supplying water to the entire area simultaneously.