Contractors of construction site in Pok Fu Lam convicted again of illegally discharging muddy water

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     The contractors of a construction site in Pok Fu Lam, China Harbour Engineering Company Limited and China Geo-Engineering Corporation, were convicted for contravening the Water Pollution Control Ordinance (WPCO) by discharging not properly treated wastewater and violating the requirements of the wastewater discharge licence, and were fined $68,000 and $38,000 respectively at the Eastern Magistrates' Courts today (March 6). According to records, the contractors were convicted for contravening the WPCO by discharging not properly treated wastewater from the abovementioned construction site to a nearby stream in August last year.

     Enforcement officers of the Environmental Protection Department (EPD) conducted an inspection at the construction site at Kai Lung Wan North, Pok Fu Lam South in August last year. During the inspection, it was found that turbid and muddy water was being discharged from the construction site into a communal storm water drain. The enforcement officers immediately collected wastewater samples for analysis and the results showed that the concentration of suspended solids was 3200 milligrams/litre, greatly exceeding the upper limit as stated in the wastewater discharge licence by 106 times. After investigation and evidence gathering, the EPD then instituted prosecution in accordance with the WPCO against the contractors of the construction site again. The EPD earnestly reminded the contractors concerned about the relevant legal liabilities of illegally discharging muddy water, and asked them to always maintain the proper operation of the wastewater treatment system and to strictly adhere to the discharge standards as stipulated in the licence.

     A spokesperson for the EPD reminded all wastewater discharge licensees that they should arrange regular cleaning and maintenance of the wastewater treatment facilities and collect wastewater samples regularly for analysis in accordance with the requirements of the licence to ensure the facilities maintain proper operation and comply with the requirements of the licence as well as preventing substandard wastewater from flowing into communal drains.

     Under the WPCO, anyone who discharges commercial or industrial wastewater into communal drains not in compliance with the standard of the discharge licence commits an offence. First-time offenders are liable to a maximum fine of $200,000 and six months' imprisonment. For subsequent offences, offenders are liable to a maximum fine of $400,000 and six months' imprisonment.

Ends/Monday, March 6, 2023
Issued at HKT 16:25

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