Hong Kong's Development Secretary Bernadette Linn today (June 18) addressed lawmakers about the black sediment found in drinking water at Queen's Hill Estate and Shan Lai Court in Sheung Shui, revealing that authorities have received 700 hotline inquiries since June 7. The Water Services Department (WSD) processed over 1,500 requests—channeled through district councilors and community care teams—for water meter flushes, completing most cases within 48 hours.
Linn attributed the issue to a 400-meter asphalt-coated steel pipe on Ping Che Road. As an emergency measure, exposed temporary pipes will replace the problematic line through round-the-clock work starting immediately, with completion expected by early July. A permanent underground pipeline will follow by year-end.
The crisis has exposed broader infrastructure concerns: 230 km (3.9%) of Hong Kong's freshwater distribution pipes still use outdated asphalt lining. While 1,000 filters have been installed across the network, WSD is evaluating whether additional units are needed. Linn confirmed 11 pipe cleanings by WSD and six pipe/three tank cleanings by the Housing Department since the incident, with all 22 newly installed inlet filters and ongoing water tests meeting safety standards.
"Most residents report improved water quality," Linn said, pledging faster incident response and clearer public communication moving forward. The government is also revising maintenance guidelines for property management companies overseeing water systems.
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