What if this unassuming structure could tell tales of resilience? I am talking about Shek Lei Hill Fresh Water Pump House. It stands as a silent witness to Hong Kong’s relentless pursuit of progress. Our story begins amidst growing pains. The burgeoning population on Hong Kong Island and Kowloon faced a severe thirst. Existing water supplies from Tai Tam and Kowloon Reservoir proved insufficient. Water shortages became commonplace. A quick solution was needed.
Enter Mr. R M Henderson. He was the head of the Water Department. He recognized the need for new water sources and larger reservoirs. Henderson proposed the development of the Aberdeen Valley and the hills around Shing Mun Valley. The government hesitated due to the massive costs involved. But the water famine of 1921 forced their hand. A smaller reservoir at Shek Lei Pui was proposed. It was near the existing Kowloon Reservoir. It was also at a higher level. Two small dams could create a reservoir. It would hold about 120 million gallons.
The location was not without its challenges. The small village of Shek Lai Pui stood in the way. It had 26 houses and 80 villagers. They would need to be relocated. The government promised to secure their future welfare. Construction began in August 1923. The Hongkong Engineering and Construction Company won the contract.
Progress was slow. Excavation for the dam foundations faced delays. Soft rock was found. It required deepening the foundations. Concrete placement finally began in April 1924. The main dam stretched 95 meters long. Its maximum height reached 22 meters.
The draw-off dam construction started in October 1924. It proceeded smoothly. This dam was 51 meters long. It had three levels for water draw-off. These were controlled from a granite valve tower. A small dam on the west side was 30 meters long.
By the end of 1925, all works were substantially complete. The Shek Lei Pui Reservoir added 100.7 million gallons to Kowloon’s storage capacity. In 1926, the reservoir’s contents were discharged into Kowloon Reservoir. This augmented the supply during water restrictions.
What happened to the villagers of Shek Lei Pui? A new village was built for them. It was located at the north end of the KCRC Beacon Hill tunnel. The village was named Hin Tin. It cost $57,200.
The demand for water continued to grow. In 1927, the first section of the Shing Mun Valley scheme supplemented Kowloon’s supply. Water consumption soared. It increased by 30% in 1927 and another 15% in 1928. Refugees and British troops contributed to the increased demand.
To address the growing demand, the Kowloon Byewash Reservoir was proposed. It would store overflow water from Kowloon Reservoir. This water would then be available during the dry season.
The completion of Shek Lei Pui Reservoir was a crucial step. It was an important step to alleviate Hong Kong’s water crisis. It showcases the city’s determination to overcome challenges. Next time you turn on the tap, remember this story. Remember the village that was moved. Think about the engineering feats that brought water to a thirsty city.