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Stormwater drainage master plan study commissioned
The Drainage Services Department has commissioned a feasibility study on stormwater drainage master plan in Northern Hong Kong Island with an aim to reducing flooding in the area.
A $7.8 million consultancy agreement was signed today (Thursday) between the Department and Maunsell Consultants Asia Limited.
Speaking after the signing of the agreement, the Assistant Director of the department, Mr Victor H Bradley, said the 18-month study would make a comprehensive assessment of the condition of the stormwater drainage system in the northern part of Hong Kong Island which includes Chai Wan, Shau Kei Wan, Quarry Bay, North Point, Wan Chai, Causeway Bay, Central, Sheung Wan and Kennedy Town.
"Apart from recommending short and long-term measures for improvement, the study will also develop a computerised management information system to facilitate future planning, management and operation of the drainage system," he said.
Mr Bradley said some of the drains in the study area were built in the pre-war period and were grossly under-capacity.
"Intensive urbanisation and rapid developments have led to numerous piecemeal extensions and modifications to the original system.
"As a result, some parts of the drainage system cannot meet the current flood protection standard and flooding occurs during severe rainstorms," he said.
The study is the second one in a new programme of seven drainage master plan studies initiated by the department early this year. The first one, already commenced in January, covers Yuen Long, Kam Tin, Ngau Tam Mei and Tin Shui Wai.
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