Tougher measures: More drainage checks will be carried out and alleys will be scrubbed and washed to keep homes and surroundings clean. Enforcement against illegal hawkers will also be strengthened to improve hygiene conditions.

Top priority will be accorded by the Government to the inspection and repairing of drains to address public concern on the role of environmental factors in the spread of SARS.

The Buildings Department will by July inspect all external drainpipes of private residential buildings and issue repair orders for defective pipes, while the Housing Department will check those in public housing estates, with half-yearly inspections thereafter.