Kai Tin Towers on Kai Tin Road in Kwun Tong discharged sewage into a communal storm drain due to a blockage in drainage pipes. Its Incorporated Owners (IO) was fined $15,000 at Kwun Tong Magistrates' Courts today (January 21) for contravening the Water Pollution Control Ordinance (WPCO).
The Environmental Protection Department (EPD) received complaints from members of the public that sewage was discharged from a commercial and residential building in Kwun Tong in June last year. The EPD staff conducted a dye-tracing test and took a wastewater sample for testing. It was then confirmed that the sewage was discharged from the terminal foul manhole of Kai Tin Towers into the communal storm drain on a nearby slope. The EPD subsequently initiated prosecution against the IO according to the WPCO.
An EPD spokesman reminded building owners, IOs and property management companies to inspect their buildings' sewage facilities regularly, repair blocked and damaged pipes properly, and ensure that the buildings' drainage systems function normally, so as to prevent environmental pollution.
Under the WPCO, it is an offence for anyone to discharge wastewater into communal storm drains. First-time offenders are liable to a maximum fine of $200,000 and six months' imprisonment. A maximum fine of $400,000 and six months' imprisonment may be imposed on second or subsequent convictions.
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