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Precautions to reduce flooding risks
The Drainage Services Department (DSD) today (Friday) urged residents to take all necessary precautions to prevent flooding and enhance safety with the approach of the rainy season.
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The Assistant Director (Operations and Maintenance) of the department, Mr Raymond Cheung Tat-kwing, said the public should not dump rubbish into stormwater drains and watercourses, or leave rubbish around their inlets such as roadside gullies.
"They should regularly check and clear rubbish and obstacles within their premises to avoid blocking stormwater drainage systems," Mr Cheung said.
"Problems in the public stormwater drainage systems should be reported to the DSD hotline 2300 1444," he added.
Mr. Cheung also asked contractors and developers not to interfere with or block any stormwater drains or watercourses without obtaining approval from the department.
To residents of low-lying areas in the New Territories, Mr Cheung said vigilance during the rainy season from May to October was essential.
"They should watch for TV and radio announcements during adverse weather and get familiar with rainstorm and flood warnings," he said.
"They should pay attention to warning signals given by sirens near their home, go to a safe place if flooding is imminent and call the Police or Fire Services Department for help in emergency evacuation.
"They should also know the locations of emergency shelters and other facilities near their home," he added.
On the part of the department, Mr Cheung said $95 million was spent last year on inspecting, cleansing, desilting and repairing stormwater drains, nullahs and stream courses throughout the territory.
"A preventive maintenance programme has been in place to ensure that the problematic drains were inspected and cleansed on a regular basis before and during the rainy season," he said.
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