When it comes to Hong Kong's famous attractions, Victoria Harbour is undoubtedly a must-see. But did you know that this stretch of water suffered from severe pollution in the 1960s and 1970s?
At the time, rapid economic development and a surging population resulted in a flood of garbage and sewage floating on the harbour's surface. Even the renowned sporting event, the Victoria Harbour Swim, was forced to be suspended in 1978. However, the government launched the Harbour Area Treatment Scheme in 2001, constructing the Stonecutters Island Sewage Treatment Plant, a deep tunnel, and upgrading sewage treatment capacity in various districts. Ultimately, these measures successfully improved Victoria Harbour's water quality, significantly reducing E. coli levels. With this improvement, the Victoria Harbour Swim was able to resume in 2011. Through sustained environmental action, Hong Kong is finally restoring Victoria Harbour to its former glory!