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Achievements in environmental pollution control on construction activities

Sewage Tunnel Excavation Work, To Kwa Wan

The project was to excavate deep tunnel from Kowloon to Chai Wan for transportation of sewage.


Environmental Concern

Tunnel excavation generates substantial volume of ground water and wastewater from drilling. The wastewater usually contains high level of sand and silts. Discharge of the wastewater, if not treated, into storm drain would lead to deposit of sand and silt in the drainage system thus causing blockage and even flooding. If discharged into the harbour, the muddy water would also pose hazard to the aquatic life.

Muddy water is collected and settled in the lagoon
Muddy water is collected and settled in the lagoon
Muddy water is treated by chemical enhanced sedimentation tanks
Muddy water is treated by chemical enhanced sedimentation tanks

Measures Adopted

Treatment - Lagoons were provided to allow sedimentation and removal of suspended solid. Chemical agents and treatment plant with vortex unit and coalescing plates were used to enhance removal of suspended solids.

Dust Screen - Open stockpiles of sand and soils from excavation were covered by tarpaulin to prevent storm runoff from washing across exposed surfaces. To prevent erosion caused by rainstorms, exposed surfaces and temporary access roads were protected by crushed stones and gravel.

Recycling - High-pressure water jet was used for vehicle and wheel washing. Wastewater generated was recycled to reduce the volume of wastewater discharged.

Monitoring - Self-monitoring of effluent quality was conducted regularly to ensure that the quality of effluent discharged met the relevant standards.

Vehicle is washed by high-pressure water jet at wheel washing bay and the wastewater is recycled
Vehicle is washed by high-pressure water jet at wheel washing bay and the wastewater is recycled

Exposed surfaces are covered by tarpaulin or crushed stones
Exposed surfaces are covered by tarpaulin or crushed stones

Observations & Achievements

Through proper planning, treatment facility with sufficient capacity and improved design was provided to remove the suspended solids from wastewater prior to discharge. The downstream drainage system and the Harbour were therefore properly protected.

 

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Last revision date: 24 April 2003