A multi-criteria group decision-making method based on fuzzy rough number for optimal water supply strategy

Due to water scarcity in different regions of Iran, water supply management is a challenging task for authorities that calls for smart methods and the proper utilization of subterranean water resources. In order to handle the inherent complexity and various uncertainties in real-world scenarios, the implementation of appropriate multi-criteria decision-making techniques is required according to the challenges underlying the management of the water supply. The present study aims to propose a hybrid framework on fuzzy rough-MARCOS, which stands for measurement of alternatives and Ranking according to compromise solution. The fuzzy rough-MARCOS method provides the fuzzy rough reference points through the fuzzy rough ideal and anti-ideal solutions that offer a more precise determination of the utility degree. Throughout the evaluation process, the fuzzy rough number is employed to deal with uncertainty and imprecision in expert judgment. A case study of the village of Nohoor located in northeastern Iran is employed to illustrate how the suggested decision-making model can be used to choose the optimal method of water supply by utilizing subsurface water resources. There are four alternatives for getting water to the community of Nohoor. Our findings show that the optimal result for supplying water is through pipeline via path A. To verify the consistency of outcomes, a comparison of our suggested method with existing MCDM techniques, namely fuzzy rough-TOPSIS method, fuzzy MARCOS, rough MARCOS, is conducted.