ENG-2009 — Page 295

Infrastructure Development and Heritage Conservation | 231

consumption and efficiency of water-using fixtures and appliances. The current practice in protection of water supply resources is also being enhanced at the same time. With public acceptance of the use of reclaimed water in the two pilot schemes at Ngong Ping and Shek Wu Hui, the Government will explore the option of providing reclaimed water from the Shek Wu Hui Sewage Treatment Works to consumers in Sheung Shui/Fanling for toilet flushing and other non-potable uses. In addition, the Government will promote the re-use of grey water and rainwater harvesting and will encourage private developers to consider them. The option of sea water desalination will be developed further.

Water Works

The works of the first, second and third stages of a programme for the replacement and rehabilitation of some 3 000 kilometres of water mains is in progress. Detailed design of the final stage continues.

A design and construction consultancy expanding the Tai Po Water Treatment Works and ancillary raw and fresh water transfer facilities commenced in June 2009. Work is due to commence in February 2010 for completion in September 2014.

Water Accounts and Customer Relations

The number of consumers with water accounts continues to rise gradually. At year-end, the department was handling approximately 2.75 million accounts. For the greater convenience to customers, payment of water bills and other matters such as change of addresses can be done online. 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.

To enhance the accuracy of water meters, a territory-wide five-year programme, launched in 2006 involving replacement of 1.3 million ageing domestic water meters, continued in 2009.

A voluntary Quality Water Recognition Scheme for Buildings encouraging proper maintenance of internal plumbing systems continues to receive public support. Three grades of certificates (gold, silver and blue) are now awarded to successful applicants according to the number of years of their participation in 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 latest developments through its website at www.hkcic.org.

The Construction Industry Council Training Academy under the CIC continued to provide training and trade testing services for the construction industry.