Under investigation: Tai Po District Officer Ivan Lee and Director of Drainage Services KK Lau discuss yesterday's Tai Po flood.

Secretary for Home Affairs Tsang Tak-sing has expressed condolences over the deaths of two people killed in flooding in Wun Yiu, Tai Po, yesterday, saying the Government will ensure their families receive assistance.

Visiting the area this afternoon Mr Tsang said two households have applied for emergency finances. The money will be disbursed to them today.

"Thirty-five people moved to the temporary shelter run by the Government at Tai Po Community Centre last night. Government staff will follow up with them to see if they need financial and accommodation help," he said, adding the Social Welfare Department and other departments will contact every villager to understand their needs and offer aid.

Tai Po District Officer Ivan Lee said arrangements have been made to restore electricity and water supplies, adding the Government has sent staff to clear the blocked Tai Po River and roads in the village.

Admitting the village lacked good drainage, Director of Drainage Services KK Lau said rocks washed down from the river's upper stream blocked the main stream, resulting in a rise of water in the tributary, causing yesterday's flood.

His department will investigate whether the contractor of the Tai Po River improvement work had done anything which might have caused a deterioration in the flooding problem.

If necessary the department will help affected villagers make compensation claims. Its staff has started recording villagers' losses.