Here stands the unsung hero. It protects us from floods. This is the Drainage Services Department Ngan Yan Road Pumping Station. It stands as a testament to Hong Kong’s commitment to managing its water resources.
The Drainage Services Department Ngan Yan Road Pumping Station plays a vital role. It helps prevent flooding. It is part of a larger network. This network includes the Shenzhen River Regulation Project. This project aims to improve drainage and prevent regional flooding.
The Shenzhen River Regulation Project is a joint effort. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and the Shenzhen Municipal Government work together. They improve the river. The project involves straightening, widening, and deepening the river channel.
The Shenzhen River Regulation Project has several stages. Stage I straightened the Lok Ma Chau bend and the Liu Pok bend. Stage II widened and deepened the remaining sections. Stage III widened and deepened the section upstream of the Liu Pok bend. Stage IV improved the section upstream of the confluence with the Ping Yuen River.
The Drainage Services Department Ngan Yan Road Pumping Station benefits from these improvements. It can manage water flow more effectively. It reduces the risk of flooding in nearby areas. The project also focuses on improving the river environment. It enhances navigation.
The Shenzhen River Regulation Project Stage I and Stage II were crucial. They mitigated flooding in the Northern New Territories. Stage I cost about HK$300 million. It was completed in 1997. Stage II cost about HK$850 million. It was completed in 2000. The new river channel is 9.5 km long.
The Shenzhen River Regulation Project Stage III was divided into two phases. Phase I covered advance works. These works reconstructed border roads and fences. Phase II involved river dredging. It also included channel straightening. Embankments were constructed. The project cost about HK$650 million. The new river channel is 4km long.
The Shenzhen River Regulation Project Stage IV included advance works too. It also involved river training works. The works widened the river. Embankments were built. A flood retention lake of 80,000m3 was constructed. The project cost about HK$840 million. The new river channel is 4.5km long.
After the Shenzhen River Regulation Project was implemented, the Shenzhen River was transformed. It is no longer a narrow and sinuous river. Wild vegetation no longer covers it. The trained Shenzhen River section has a high level of flood protection.
The old Lo Wu Railway Bridge was reconstructed. It has high historical value. Both governments decided to preserve it. It is located near the river and the Lo Wu Railway Station. People can view the bridge and recall old memories.
A pulley and trolley system shifted the bridge. This method preserved the bridge in its original form. It prevented damage.
A flood retention lake was constructed. It attenuates peak flows. It discharges to the existing downstream Shenzhen River. It includes an inlet overflow weir system. It also includes an outlet sluice. The flood retention lake has a capacity of 80,000m3.
During heavy rainstorms, the lake stores stormwater. It keeps the downstream water level under control. Ecological features were included in the design. Wetland flora and riverbank greening elements were planted. They provide habitats for plants and animals. They enrich the ecology of the Shenzhen River.
The Drainage Services Department Ngan Yan Road Pumping Station is a vital component. It protects us from the forces of nature. It ensures the safety and well-being of the community. The pumping station stands as a symbol of progress and resilience.