Awarded entry of the HKIE 50th Anniversary Legacy Award - Grand Award (Innovation Category)

The Plover Cove (PC) Reservoir, completed in 1973, stands as the world’s first “reservoir in the sea”. This groundbreaking project involved constructing a 2-km dam between Tai Mei Tuk and Harbour Island, forming a 1,190-hectare artificial lake with a storage capacity of 230 mcm—million cubic metres—thereby tripling Hong Kong’s freshwater reserves. Integrated tunnels and intake systems connect critical waterworks infrastructures, including the Lower Shing Mun Reservoir and the Sha Tin Water Treatment Works, ensuring stable freshwater supply to Kowloon and Hong Kong Island.

The major challenges overcome during construction included: preventing seawater intrusion and designing a tunnel network to divert natural catchment flows. Engineers strategically aligned tunnels to intercept natural streams, maximising water yield. Vertical shafts (up to 4.6 m in diameter and 110 m deep) collect surface runoff, while air-regulated siphon spillways dynamically balance water storage and flood control.

Plover Cove Reservoir

Rising demand driven by population and industrial growth prompted the 1979 commissioning of the High Island (HI) Reservoir. Two massive dams created Hong Kong’s largest reservoir with 281 mcm capacity. The 40-km HI Tunnel System interconnects reservoirs and treatment facilities, optimising cross-regional water transfer and storage efficiency.

High Island Reservoir

Combining innovative engineering solutions with strategic Dongjiang water imports from Guangdong, the PC and HI Reservoirs have resolved chronic shortages, elevated living standards, and bolstered drought resilience. These projects remain pillars of Hong Kong’s sustainable water management, supporting economic growth while safeguarding water security.