“Need directions to Fung Shui Lane Stormwater Pumping Station?” someone asks. The answer can be found in Shenzhen. It plays a vital role in Hong Kong’s drainage system.
Right here we see Fung Shui Lane Stormwater Pumping Station. It stands as a testament to engineering ingenuity. It protects Yuen Long from the perils of flooding.
This station is more than just pipes and pumps. It is a crucial piece in the intricate puzzle of Hong Kong’s infrastructure. It safeguards lives and property.
Fung Shui Lane Stormwater Pumping Station serves a low-lying area. The area spans approximately 10 hectares. Its ground levels range from +2.64 mPD to +3.85 mPD. This area is particularly vulnerable to flooding during heavy rainstorms. It faces annual high tides at the Sheung Wan waterfront. The high tide can reach +2.8mPD.
The threat is seawater flowing back from the outfall. This is at the seafront of Sheung Wan. It spills over from manholes and gratings.
Between 2001 and 2006 Sheung Wan’s low-lying area suffered. There were three serious floods. The maximum flood depth reached 700mm. This significantly impacted businesses and residents. The area is famous for shops selling dried seafood and swallows’ nests.
To tackle this persistent flooding issue, the Drainage Services Department committed. They would implement the Sheung Wan Stormwater Pumping Station and intercepting drains. These drains were at Queen’s Road Central.
The SWSmPS project cost around HK$200 million. It was commissioned in 2009. It includes an underground storage tank. This tank holds 9000 m3. That’s about the size of four standard swimming pools. The project also features an above-ground pump house. A diversion chamber with penstocks and associated drainage pipes connect it all.
The pump house is a single-story structure standing 5.6m high. It has two basement levels covering 448 square meters. Inside you will find a switch room and a transformer room. There are also water pumps and a deodorization unit.
A diversion chamber directs runoff to the underground storage tank. Penstocks inside prevent seawater back-flow. Six submersible pumps then pump the stormwater. It goes from the storage tank to Victoria Harbour.
Intercepting drains along Queen’s Road Central aid this process. These drains intercept approximately 30% of the surface runoff. It comes from the mid-levels of Sheung Wan.
The system collectively raises flood protection. It helps Sheung Wan to withstand rainstorms. These are storms that occur every 50 years.
Fung Shui Lane Stormwater Pumping Station illustrates a harmonious blend. It is the blend of functionality and community benefit. This commitment underscores the city’s dedication to its residents. It ensures safety and prosperity for all.