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manner. The key initiatives on water demand management include implementation of active leakage control, pressure management, extension of the use of sea water for toilet flushing, stepping up public education on water conservation and promotion of the use of water saving devices. During the year, the Government extended the voluntary Water Efficiency Labelling Scheme to washing machines.
With regard to the management of water supply, an inter-departmental working group was set up to explore ways and means to cut down the cost of providing reclaimed water from the Shek Wu Hui Sewage Treatment Works to residents in Sheung Shui/Fanling for toilet flushing and other non-potable uses. The Government will promote the re-use of grey water and rainwater harvesting and explore the feasibility of constructing a desalination plant at Tseung Kwan O.
Water Works
The replacement and rehabilitation programme involved some 3 000 kilometres of aged water main. The works of the first and second stage were completed in early 2010 and mid-2011 respectively, while the third and fourth stages are in progress. The works of the entire programme are scheduled to complete by end- 2015.
The works of the first contract for expanding the Tai Po Water Treatment Works and its ancillary water transfer facilities commenced in early 2010 and substantially completed in end-2011. Design and tendering of the remaining two contracts are in progress. A design and construction consultancy for the in-situ reprovisioning of the South Works of the Sha Tin Water Treatment Works commenced in August 2010 and detailed design is in progress.
Water Accounts and Customer Relations
The number of water consumer accounts rose to approximately 2.8 million at the end of 2011. For the greater convenience to customers, water bills payment service through convenience stores is targeted to be launched in February 2012. The Water Supplies Department also continues to act as an agent for collecting sewage charges and trade effluent surcharges on behalf of the Drainage Services Department.
A voluntary Quality Water Recognition Scheme for Buildings encouraging proper maintenance of internal plumbing systems continues to receive public support. About 1.1 million households are now benefited under the scheme.
Construction Industry
Construction Industry Council
The Construction Industry Council (CIC) continued to make steady progress in initiatives to raise standards in the industry, including construction site safety, subcontracting, environment and technology, procurement, and manpower training and development. The CIC keeps industry stakeholders informed of the latest developments through its website at www.hkcic.org.