How A Kwun Tong Nullah Will Become A City River

Drainage officials on Thursday gave new details of an innovative project to transform an old nullah in Kwun Tong into a "river in the city" that will combine water management with spruced up green surroundings where people can enjoy leisure activities.

The Drainage Services Department began work in 2020 on improving the one-kilometre watercourse along Tsui Ping Road and have now given more details of a scheme they say will bring renewed ecological and landscaping value to the area as well as improving the functioning of water channels.

"Channel revitalisation is not only about flood [prevention] and environmental protection, but also the provision of quality public open space in the community," Alice Pang, the director of drainage services, said in explaining the "rivers in the city" concept.

She said the river would feature marshes, a smart water gate that regulates water flow, as well as a floating bridge.

"The bridge itself will rise or go down together with the tide level, so that people are very close to the water surface."

One of the other footbridges across the river will connect the Kwun Tong promenade to a new waterfront area in Cha Kwo Ling that also overlooks the Victoria Harbour.

To further beautify the neighbourhood, the roof of the nearby Kwun Tong sewage pumping station will be transformed into a green recreational space one hectare in size. Authorities say there'll be no smell in the area.

They said the Cha Kwo Ling promenade and the rooftop garden should be open to the public in the next few months, while the renovated river will be complete in late 2024.