Independent experts begin site inspection for Fairview Park water loss issue

An independent expert panel commissioned by the Water Supplies Department began a site inspection at Fairview Park in Yuen Long on Monday, aiming to deliver initial findings by April to help resolve the estate's persistent water loss problem.

The panel comprises Wallace Lai Wai-lok, associate head of the land surveying and geo-informatics department at Polytechnic University, Joseph Kwan Kai-cho, chairman of the Advisory Committee on Water Supplies, and King Wong, president of the International Institute of Utility Specialist. Their mandate is to provide third-party, science-based analysis.

Panel members revealed they used advanced multi-channel array vehicle-mounted ground-penetrating radar technology to collect underground data. They will also gather acoustic detection data, water quality test results, and on-site environmental conditions. This information will be cross-referenced with geographic data and analyzed alongside the age and material of the estate's existing water pipes for a comprehensive assessment.

The Water Supplies Department reiterated that internal water supply pipes within private estates are common parts of the internal water system. Under Section 7 of the Waterworks Ordinance, the owners or registered agents are responsible for their upkeep and maintenance. The department's role is regulatory and enforcement-related, requiring those responsible to fix leaks and taking appropriate action when necessary. The department said it provides technical support to assist estates in resolving such issues promptly.