Kowloon Reservoir

Gazing at the serene waters of Kowloon Reservoir, can you imagine a submerged car resting on the reservoir’s floor? This intriguing discovery in 2025 linked back to a tragic incident in 2023. Kowloon Reservoir, nestled within Kam Shan Country Park, offers not just scenic beauty but also a glimpse into the past. Construction on this vital reservoir began in 1907, marking it as the first reservoir built in the New Territories, completing in 1910. Imagine the engineering feat it was, over a century ago, to create this essential water source. Kowloon Reservoir is more than just a single body of water. It’s part of a group, including Kowloon Byewash Reservoir, Kowloon Reception Reservoir, and Shek Lei Pui Reservoir, collectively holding 2.9 million cubic meters of water. Our story takes a somber turn with the discovery of a body floating in the reservoir during a typhoon in 2023. A 30-year-old man, surnamed Chow, tragically lost his life here. The later discovery of his submerged car added another layer to the mystery. The incident prompted a temporary suspension of water usage from the reservoir, emphasizing the importance of water safety and the continuous testing that ensures the cleanliness of Hong Kong’s water supply. But Kowloon Reservoir is also a place of life. The surrounding area, often called Monkey Hill, is teeming with macaques. So, as you stand here, appreciate the beauty, acknowledge the history, both tragic and triumphant, and remember the crucial role Kowloon Reservoir plays in the life of Hong Kong.