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A fun-filled carnival highlighting the Government's unfailing efforts in securing a reliable water supply in the past one-and-a-half century was held today (March 18) at Tamar, Central.

To mark the 150th anniversary of water supply in Hong Kong, the event is one of a series of promotional activities to raise public awareness on the preservation of our invaluable water resources.

A total of 20 uniquely-designed game booths featuring various waterworks installations and water resources were set up. Other attractions for children included "Pony Horse","Dr. Dogs" and mechanical games such as "Animal Train", "Spaceship" and "Go Kart".

Apart from the game stalls, the carnival also featured performances by cheerful children of WSD staff and a magic show.

The main attraction of the carnival was the launching of a special stamp set to commemorate 150 years of water supply in Hong Kong. A special signing session was arranged for the Director of Water Supplies and the Acting Postmaster General to sign the first day cover for the joyful crowd.

The Post Office has designed a set of first day cover stamps with the water droplet motif depicting four major waterworks and facilities, namely Tai Tam Tuk Reservoir, Plover Cove Reservoir, large diameter water pipelines for transferring water from Guangdong, and the application of modern technology to the controlling and monitoring of water quality.

This is the first set of embossed stamps issued in Hong Kong. Embossing and spot vanishing methods are applied to give an extra touch to the translucent and flowing quality of the water drop. This commemorative stamp set went for sale today at the carnival and various post offices.

With interesting illustrations and in simple language, more than 50 panels featuring water supply engineering and history and development of local water supply were also displayed.

The Director of Water Supplies, Mr Hugh Phillipson, said that his department was most encouraged by the overwhelming response of the public to the carnival, particularly their interest in the display of the brief history of water supply in Hong Kong.

He said the aim was to raise the public awareness of Government's efforts in providing a wholesome water supply. Concerted effort was essential to preserve and protect the world's precious water resources.

Public with an interest on such topics can also visit our 'Ask Professor Water' exhibition currently staged at the Science Museum until May 31.

End/Sunday, March 18, 2001

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