Objective:

To launch a comprehensive and systemic programme to replace or rehabilitate about 3 000 kilometres of aged water mains in 15 years to improve the condition of the water supply network so as to maintain a reasonable level of services to consumers.

Background:

Hong Kong's fresh water and salt water supplies are provided through a network of about 7 800 kilometres of water mains. Most of these water mains are underground. A substantial portion of the water mains was laid more than 30 years ago.  They are progressively approaching the end of their service life and have become increasingly difficult and costly to maintain.

As a result of the ageing problem, we faced an increasing number of main burst and leakage cases causing inconvenience to the public and loss of precious water.  The previous way of carrying out piecemeal and small-scale replacement works was not considered effective.  Starting from 2000, we have implemented a comprehensive and cost-effective management plan for the water supply network.  This involves the replacement and rehabilitation of some 3 000 kilometres of aged water mains in stages to rejuvenate the water supply network.