The recent discovery of bitumen in the drinking water of two public housing estates in Hong Kong has raised significant concerns among residents and highlighted the urgent need for a more responsive government. Water is a basic human necessity, and ensuring its safety is a fundamental duty of any responsible authority, particularly in a densely populated city like Hong Kong. The slow response to this serious issue not only jeopardizes public health but also undermines trust in the government, which has been striving to address critical livelihood issues.

On May 30, residents reported finding black particles in their drinking water, prompting immediate concern and speculation about the source of the contamination. As the situation unfolded, many began purchasing bottled water, reflecting a lack of confidence in the safety of the municipal supply. This reaction underscores the gravity of the issue and the need for prompt communication from officials to reassure the public.

It wasn't until several days later that independent tests commissioned by media outlets confirmed the presence of bitumen, a substance that has been banned from use in water pipes since 2005 due to health risks. This finding raised alarm bells, and on the following day, the Director of Water Supplies, Roger Wong Yan-lok, announced that bitumen was detected in most of the 126 samples taken from the affected housing estates. He suggested that the contamination might have originated from a 2022 incident involving significant sediment flow into the pipes of Queens Hill Estate.

While Wong attempted to reassure residents that the water remained safe to drink, the damage had already been done. The delayed response and lack of urgency in addressing the contamination left many feeling abandoned and anxious about their health. It is crucial for authorities to act swiftly in such situations, not only to resolve the immediate crisis but also to maintain public trust. The perception that residents were left high and dry, waiting for answers, reflects poorly on a government that has positioned itself as responsive to the needs of its citizens.

In the aftermath of the incident, the government pledged to enhance cleaning efforts and address the approximately 700 km of bitumen-lined pipes in the city. The city leader, John Lee Ka-chiu, convened a high-level meeting to discuss the situation and emphasized the need for quick action to ease public concerns. He ordered the immediate replacement of a section of a nearby pipe and laid out a comprehensive 10-point plan to tackle the issue, which would be supervised by the Deputy Financial Secretary.

Despite these measures, the community’s worries remain palpable. This is not the first time black particles have been found in Hong Kong’s water supply; similar incidents in 2017 and 2018 at other estates have left residents questioning the reliability of their drinking water. Each occurrence raises valid concerns about the adequacy of the government's maintenance of water infrastructure and its responsiveness to public health threats.

The recurring nature of these incidents suggests systemic issues within the water supply management and highlights the need for a thorough review of existing protocols. The government must not only address the immediate problem but also implement long-term solutions to prevent future occurrences. This includes regular maintenance and inspection of water infrastructure, proactive communication with residents, and transparent reporting of test results.

Moreover, the psychological impact on residents cannot be overlooked. Even if future tests confirm that the water is safe to drink, the lingering fear and uncertainty caused by such incidents can lead to lasting distrust in public institutions. It is essential for the government to rebuild this trust through consistent and transparent communication, ensuring that residents feel informed and safe.

The current situation serves as a reminder of the broader issues facing Hong Kong, particularly as the government strives to balance public health with other pressing concerns such as social welfare and affordable housing. While these are undoubtedly important issues, the safety of drinking water should never be compromised. A strong and effective government prioritizes the health and well-being of its citizens above all else.

In conclusion, the discovery of bitumen in Hong Kong's drinking water is a wake-up call for authorities to take public health seriously and respond swiftly to crises. The government's slow response has left residents feeling vulnerable and anxious, and the need for a robust plan of action is more urgent than ever. Effective communication, proactive measures, and a commitment to maintaining water quality are essential to restoring public trust and ensuring that residents do not feel abandoned in times of crisis.

As Hong Kong continues to navigate its challenges, prioritizing the safety of drinking water must remain at the forefront of the government's agenda. Only through comprehensive action and dedicated attention can the city ensure a safe and healthy environment for all its residents.

By Lewis Koch

The author is a current affairs commentator.

The views do not necessarily reflect those of Orange News.

Cover Photo: Singtao Headline