Black particles found in tap water from Queen’s Hill Estate have been sent to the Government Laboratory for testing, with results expected this week to determine the material's composition and origin, said Secretary for Development Bernadette Linn Hon-ho.
Her comments came after residents of the four-year-old Fanling estate had raised concerns over abnormal tap water quality, reporting black particulate matter flowing from their faucets.
Speaking to the press on Wednesday, the development chief acknowledged public unease while assuring that daily water tests confirm safety standards are being met.
Linn described the presence of black particles as "unusual" and said samples had been sent to the Government Laboratory, with results expected within the week to identify the material and trace its source.
She said the Housing Department and estate management had been instructed to inspect internal pipes, clean water tanks, and install additional filters.
While some households reported improvements, others still observed minor particles.
Linn emphasized that the Water Supplies Department (WSD) and Housing Department are collaborating on a "scientific and thorough" investigation, with preliminary findings suggesting the issue originates from internal plumbing, though no visible pipe damage has been detected yet. She pledged full transparency once the probe concludes.
As a temporary measure, water tanks remain stationed outside the affected blocks, she added.
Separately, Linn addressed recurring pipe bursts in Tuen Mun, noting that while a major pipe replacement program was carried out from 2000 to 2015, aging infrastructure beneath busy thoroughfares complicates repairs.
The Development Bureau has tasked WSD with prioritizing pipe replacements in high-risk zones, leveraging sensor technology to monitor pressure and leaks.
A territory-wide sensor installation plan, slated for completion by 2027, aims to enable preemptive repairs, with Linn urging accelerated progress ahead of a July Legco update.
(Natasha Ng)
