Originally commissioned in 1989 the Sha Tau Kok Sewage Treatment Works stands before us. It is a testament to Hong Kong’s commitment to managing its environmental footprint. This facility serves the Sha Tau Kok town area. It plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological health of the northern New Territories.
The Sha Tau Kok Sewage Treatment Works once had a capacity of 1660 cubic meters per day. It discharged treated effluent into Starling Inlet. The facility only served the Sha Tau Kok town area.
But times change and so do needs. By 2019 the existing capacity was expected to be fully utilized. Recognizing this the Drainage Services Department initiated a reconstruction project. This expansion aims to increase the plant’s capacity to 5000 cubic meters per day. There is even an option to expand to 10000 cubic meters per day.
The expansion project awarded in the fourth quarter of 2018 is scheduled for completion in the first quarter of 2025. It includes several key components. Temporary sewage treatment facilities ensure continuous service during reconstruction. A longer submarine outfall will handle the increased effluent discharge. Alterations to the trunk sewer system within Sha Tau Kok town will optimize flow. Public sewerage will extend to Tong To.
Binnies Hong Kong Limited serves as the consultant for this project. Build King Kum Shing Joint Venture is the contractor. Their collaboration ensures expertise and efficiency in this vital undertaking.
Innovative construction technologies are at the heart of this project. Design for Manufacture and Assembly DfMA expedites work progress and land usage. A new 1.8km submarine outfall was constructed using trenchless land-sea two-way horizontal directional drilling. This minimizes disturbance to the seabed and marine ecology.
Building Information Modelling BIM enhances design and construction coordination. It allows the project team to modify construction sequences and spatial arrangements. This reduces troubleshooting and enhances productivity. Digitalization of site management Building Information Modelling BIM and off-site construction are also key. Various IoT devices Artificial Intelligence AI and Virtual Reality VR further contribute to sustainable construction.
The Expansion of Sha Tau Kok Sewage Treatment Works Phase 1 and Village Sewerage in Tong To Project has earned several awards. These accolades recognize the project’s commitment to safety environmental excellence and innovation.
In May 2021 the Secretary for Environment Mr. WONG Kam-sing visited the Sha Tau Kok Sewage Treatment Works. He learned about the advanced technologies being deployed. These technologies improve sewage treatment effectiveness and effluent quality.
DSD Engineer Mr. Alvin HO Chark-ming explained the benefits of Moving Bed Biofilm Reactors MBBR. He also highlighted the land-sea two-way Horizontal Directional Drilling HDD method. This method minimizes impact on the marine environment.
So as we stand here before the Sha Tau Kok Sewage Treatment Works remember its vital role. It protects our environment and supports the growth of this vibrant region. It is a project of innovation sustainability and community service.