Some pipes and secondary treatment facilities at the Sai Kung Sewage Treatment Works were damaged during Super Typhoon Mangkhut and it can only maintain its primary sewage treatment service for the time being.

The Drainage Services Department made the announcement today, saying its staff conducted emergency repairs immediately so the sewage treatment plant could resume normal operations as soon as possible. 

However, as facilities were seriously damaged, it will take some time to complete restoration works. 

As a temporary measure, an additional disinfection process has been implemented for the primary treated sewage before being bypassed for nearshore discharge, to minimise the impact on nearby waters.

Meanwhile, three pipes near Mills & Chung Path, Deep Water Bay Barbecue Area and Tai Tau Chau of Shek O were also damaged during the typhoon, leading to the discharge of sewage. 

The department has arranged for emergency repairs and will start replacing the damaged sewers, aiming to complete repair works within three weeks.   

The Leisure & Cultural Services Department announced on September 17 that five beaches would be temporarily closed to clean up debris and repair shark prevention nets.

The five beaches are Kiu Tsui Beach, Trio Beach, Hap Mun Bay Beach, Deep Water Bay Beach and Shek O Beach.

The Environmental Protection Department and the Drainage Services Department will continue monitoring the water quality at the beaches and nearby waters.

People are advised to avoid recreational activities, angling or seawater abstraction in the potentially affected sea or waterfront areas at Port Shelter near Sai Kung Sewage Treatment Works, Deep Water Bay and Shek O.

Click here for the latest beach grades.