Excessive lead has been found in tap water samples taken from phase two of Kwai Luen Estate.
Secretary for Transport & Housing Prof Anthony Cheung said today remedial measures will be carried out.
Of the 44 samples collected in the estate, five were found to have lead exceeding the World Health Organisation standard.
A sample taken from a vacant flat in Shui Chuen O Estate also exceeded the standard.
Director of Water Supplies Enoch Lam said the Government will provide temporary water supplies in Kwai Luen Estate, and will set up water outlets at the ground floor of every building.
Director of Housing Stanley Ying said the department will provide bottled water for Kwai Luen Estate residents, and will conduct a seminar to provide them with the latest information. The department will also contact the building contractor to discuss follow-up works.
Centre for Health Protection Surveillance & Epidemiology Branch Head Dr Regina Ching said the centre’s hotline 2125 1122 has received 748 enquiries and arranged 441 blood tests so far.
As several estates have problematic water supplies, Prof Cheung said he will ask the Housing Authority to form a task force to review the monitoring of housing projects.
