“Ever wonder where the water goes after a heavy rain?” Today, we’re exploring the Hung Hom Bay Sewage Pumping Station. This station plays a vital role in Hong Kong’s infrastructure.
The Hung Hom Bay Sewage Pumping Station may not be the prettiest building but it is important. It quietly helps keep our city clean. It prevents sewage from polluting Victoria Harbour.
Interestingly, the Drainage Services Department is committed to beautifying its facilities. They aim to enhance the surrounding neighborhoods. The Hung Hom Bay Sewage Pumping Station has a green roof. This helps it blend into the environment. It also provides a small green space in our urban landscape.
Other pumping stations also have green roofs. You can find them at To Kwa Wan Preliminary Treatment Works and Siu Hong Sewage Pumping Station. The Central and North Point Preliminary Treatment Works also feature them. Even the Kau Hui and Water Boat Dock Sewage Pumping Stations are beautified.
Murals are another popular way to beautify Hong Kong. In 2019, the Drainage Services Department collaborated with Finnish artist Riitta Kuisma. Together, they created a mural on the Whampoa Garden Sewage Pumping Station. This transformed the pumping station. It integrated art into the community.
Kuisma spent a month on the mural. She finished in mid-July 2020. The nature-inspired mural brought a refreshing change. Tropical trees and exotic flowers now cover the walls. Colourful macaws and a peacock adorn the sky-blue background.
The mural includes a tree swing. This adds a touch of relaxation. It transports viewers from the city to the countryside. The vibrant tropical jungle beautifies the environment. It also helps the pumping station blend in.
Before the pumping station was built, Hung Hom Bay was much larger. It once stretched inland. Reclamation projects have changed the coastline since 1994. By 2019, the bay was completely extinguished.
Today, areas like Tsim Sha Tsui East and the Hung Hom MTR station sit on reclaimed land. Even the Hung Hom Ferry Pier is built on what was once part of the bay.
So, next time you’re in the area, remember the Hung Hom Bay Sewage Pumping Station. It’s a reminder of how Hong Kong balances development. It also shows how it cares for the environment.