Government Begins Phased Cleanup of Illegal Structures on Sham Shui Po Hillside
RTHK · 2 SOURCESabout 2 hours ago3 MIN
Summary
The Hong Kong government began a two-phase cleanup operation on Monday to address illegal occupation of government land on Wo Zi Shan in Sham Shui Po. The Civil Affairs Department announced that authorities will systematically remove unlawful structures, facilities, and debris from the hillside in stages, with the first phase covering the area from the foot to the summit near Tong Yam Street Hillside Rest Area, and the second phase targeting the section near Berwick Street. The Lands Department issued statutory notices on Monday morning requiring occupants to cease land occupation by August 12, urging them to voluntarily demolish or remove their belongings. To ensure public safety during the operation, each phase will involve approximately three days of partial hillside closure, though residents can still access the summit via alternative routes, including the Former Sham Shui Po Fresh Water Service Reservoir.
Key Points
- Government launches two-phase cleanup of illegal structures on Wo Zi Shan, with Phase 1 covering Tong Yam Street to summit and Phase 2 covering Berwick Street area
- Lands Department issues statutory notices requiring occupants to stop land occupation by August 12, urging voluntary removal of belongings
- Each cleanup phase involves approximately three days of partial hillside road closure, with alternative access routes maintained
- Seven improvement projects planned after cleanup include repairing directional signs, installing safe seating, improving shelters, fixing broken railings, and replacing outdated fitness equipment
- Religious items on the mountain will be respectfully handled with assistance from religious leaders to perform appropriate ceremonies
- New safety features include protective mats under fitness equipment, slope reinforcement, ground leveling, and additional ping-pong tables at safe locations
- Government expects all improvement projects to be completed between late August and September
Why It Matters
This cleanup operation represents a significant step in reclaiming public land that has been illegally occupied, while simultaneously upgrading recreational facilities for local residents. The phased approach with maintained access demonstrates a balanced strategy that prioritizes both public safety and community interests during the transitional period. The planned improvements, including safer fitness equipment and protective slope measures, directly address longstanding safety concerns on the hillside while preserving the area's recreational function for Sham Shui Po residents.
This cleanup operation represents a significant step in reclaiming public land that has been illegally occupied, while simultaneously upgrading recreational facilities for local residents. The phased approach with maintained access demonstrates a balanced strategy that prioritizes both public safety and community interests during the transitional period. The planned improvements, including safer fitness equipment and protective slope measures, directly address longstanding safety concerns on the hillside while preserving the area's recreational function for Sham Shui Po residents.