Illegal Yuen Long fueling station linked to Tin Shui Wai oil spill, EPD says

The Environmental Protection Department (EPD) said on Wednesday that a preliminary investigation has traced the recent oil spill in the Tin Shui Wai nullah to an illegal fueling station in Yuen Long.

The department said it received reports from residents and from the Drainage Services Department (DSD) on Monday (Dec 8), prompting both departments to deploy oil-absorbent materials at several locations along the nullah to contain the contamination and begin clean-up operations.

Water quality monitoring showed normal readings, and no fish deaths have been reported. Early findings indicate the spill is connected to an illicit fueling site on Tin Ha Road in Yuen Long. 

The EPD said it is collecting evidence to prosecute those responsible for the unlawful discharge of oil. The case involving the fueling station has been referred to relevant authorities for further investigation and enforcement.

A department spokesman stressed that environmental pollution “will not be tolerated,” adding that strict enforcement actions will be taken against offenders.

The EPD will continue to monitor water quality in the nullah and will work closely with DSD on the ongoing clean-up efforts, the spokesman added.