18
Friday, December 22, 1972
EARTH EMBANKMENT FOR HIGH ISLAND SCHEME
As the next major step in the construction of Hong Kong's latest
J
and largest reservoir the High Island Water Scheme, an earth embankment will soon be formed across the middle of the future reservoir site to join
the Sai Kung Peninsula and High Island itself.
Across this causeway will pass a road which will give access to the southern ends of the two dams during the initial part of the construction perică Whilst formation of the causeway will not actually enclose the
reservoir area it will divide the eastern half from the western and prevent the passage of all vessels and small craft through the existing channel. This
is likely to happen a day or two after Christmas.
Construction of the reservoir has received considerable publicity
since the High Island Water Scheme was announced as going ahead on May 1, 1971,
and the closure of the channel between mainland and island has always been
accepted as one of the inevitable disadvantages of the scheme.
Although not passable at all states of the tide the channel, known locally as Kwun Mun, has often provided a more sheltered alternative to the route around the south of High Island for fishing junks and other small craft.
At the time of closure Government vessels will be in position at the
eastern and western entrances to the channel to warn approaching boats that passage through the channel is no longer possible and any boat not familiar
with the alternative route will be advised how to proceed.
Before closure of the channel, assistance will also be given to any
craft wishing to move from the eastern half of the reservoir, which adjoins the
open sea, to the western half, which adjoins Inner Port Shelter.
Release Time: 5.30 p.m.
о