VI
0%
Done
i
T::
510
4,000,000 gallons a day. This allowance per head per day is certainly not excessive.
The assumed increase in population may or may not be correct. The population of Hong Kong is not a fixed one. It does not increase normally, by an excess of births over deaths. On the other hand, it varies with the state of trade, prosperity causing an immigration, depression or political trouble, an exodus. The probable population in 1910, cannot be computed by the ordinary rules.
I entirely agree with the statements made by the Director of Public Works, in paragraph 165 of his report, to the effect that so great an increase of population, on the present urban area, should not be permitted.
(4) In as much as the future demand for water cannot be predicted with certainty, the Director of Public Works wisely refrains from bringing forward some one comprehensive project, which will provide for an estimated population at some remote date. He proposes to construct numerous reservoirs, which may be carried out progressively, as the demand arises. It is further proposed, to develop existing gathering-grounds to the utmost, and not to invade new catchment areas.
The progressive character of the proposed programme is advantageous, not merely because it can be carried out pari-passu, with the increase in demand but because it admits of modifications in design, should the works executed from time to time, prove more or less productive than they were estimated to be.
(5) It appears from the rainfall statistics, given in the report, that the average monthly rainfall is as follows (Table and Diagrams).
2
Page ...
...
...