C&W FEHWC Paper No. 71/2014 – Annex II

Concern over the flooding problem occurred in Sheung Wan, Sai Wan and during rainstorm

Written reply by Drainage Services Department (DSD)

A1&3: Over the years, Drainage Services Department (DSD) was committed to address the flooding problems in the urban areas by implementing various large-scale flood prevention projects. For example, the West Drainage Tunnel has effectively intercepted the surface runoff from the catchment of Mid-levels and thus greatly enhanced the flood protection level along northern . Also, the Sheung Wan Stormwater Pumping Station and Intercepting Drains at Queen’s Road Central have successfully resolved the flooding problem in the low-lying area of Sheung Wan. Besides, a series of drainage improvement works proposed in the lower catchment areas of Hong Kong Island have been mostly completed. Although part of the drainage improvement works in the lower catchment could not be fully implemented due to the constraints of traffic and underground utilities, the commissioning of the flood prevention facilities has proved to be effective in reducing the flood risk of the concerned areas. Serious flooding incident has not recurred in recent years.

Owing to the different topography and conditions of the drains, minor flooding in certain areas is still identified during heavy rainfall. To combat the problem, DSD has implemented a series of relief measures. Firstly, we have arranged our contractors to carry out cleansing works several times a year for the pipes which are prone to blockage. In addition, when the Amber rainstorm warning is issued by the Hong Kong Observatory, our contractors will be mobilized to inspect the flood-prone areas. Also, whenever we receive public complaints or enquiries on flooding, we will immediately deploy teams to inspect the site. If necessary, we shall arrange urgent clearance work to ensure proper functioning of the drainage facilities. As some flooding cases are caused by blockage of surface drainage systems, DSD has requested Food and Environmental Hygiene Department to strengthen their routine checking and cleansing of the surface drainage system, and Highways Department to review the sufficiency of the road side gullies.

DSD has commissioned a consultancy study on “Review of Drainage Master Plan in Northern Hong Kong Island - Feasibility Study" to review the performance of drainage system of northern Hong Kong Island (including Sheung Wan, Sai Wan and Sai Ying Pun), carry out relevant surveys and investigation and recommend short, medium and long-term improvement measures to enhance the drainage systems so as to cope with the future development. The Study commenced in May 2014 for completion in about 30 months. We will seek the views of the District Council on the recommended measures.

A3: The condition of the drainage and sewage pipes in the Central and Western District are satisfactory in general. During our drain cleansing, we would occasionally find rather large amount of grits and debris accumulated at the pipes and manholes. Our staff will refer any illegal dumping as identified to relevant departments for follow up and consideration for prosecution.

(Received on 25.9.2014 by the Secretariat)

Secretariat of the Central and Western District Council September 2014