Water main leakage rate drops down to 13.4pc last year: Development chief

Over 1,200 cases of water mains leaks in government fresh water mains were detected by the Water Supplies Department (WSD) last year via the Water Intelligent Network (WIN), reducing the leakage rate from around 25 percent in 2000 to about 13.4 percent through early maintenance works, according to Secretary for Development Bernadette Linn Hon-ho.

Linn’s statement came after lawmakers’ concerns over recent pipe bursts throughout the city, including multiple incidents in the Tuen Mun area within a week in early June.

Speaking at the Legco on Wednesday,  Linn highlighted that WIN was established in 2016, with the setup of 2,400 District Metering Areas (DMAs) completed by the end of March 2025, covering approximately 80 percent of the distribution network to enhance leak management.

To further extend its coverage, an upgrade project is scheduled for completion in 2027, though Linn has requested the WSD to expedite this process. However, Linn emphasized the unpredictable nature of pipe bursts, particularly in older pipes with weakened structures, noting that the replacement of the water mains may have delayed the project.

In response to the installation of backup water supply networks,  Linn mentioned resource considerations, indicating that these backup mains will primarily be applied to critical facilities such as hospitals.

For residential areas, Linn underscored that the WSD will prioritize ensuring an adequate water supply before conducting repairs, aiming to minimize both the extent and duration of water interruptions.

While some lawmakers raised concerns  about the lengthy process of replacing pipes, with completion times averaging between four to seven years, Linn explained that many of these pipes are situated on busy roads, complicating replacement efforts due to heavy traffic.

Linn assured the department is actively working to communicate relevant pipe replacement plans, especially in areas with new road developments, to accelerate both road and pipe replacement projects.