60 years of Dongjiang water supply to Hong Kong

A ceremony was held in Hong Kong on Monday to mark the 60th anniversary of Dongjiang water supply to the city, alongside the opening of the “Dancing Water Drops” exhibition by Simon Ma.

The Dongjiang-Shenzhen Water Supply Project broke ground in February 1964 after a severe drought wreaked havoc in Hong Kong in the previous year. It was completed in just one year and started operation March 1, 1965, bringing an end to the days of water scarcity in Hong Kong.

The project diverts water from the Dongjiang River, which originates from East China’s Jiangxi Province and flows to the Pearl River Delta in southern Guangdong. Its 83-km pipelines take water from Dongguan to Hong Kong after going through the Shenzhen Reservoir.

Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Chief Executive John Lee highlighted that the Dongjiang River provides 70% to 80% of Hong Kong’s drinking water, sustaining its economic growth and residents’ livelihoods.

“The Dongjiang water supply is more than an engineering feat — it symbolizes our kinship, reminding Hong Kong citizens of their Chinese roots and inspiring them to contribute to the nation,” Lee said.

Guangdong Governor Wang Weizhong, also present at the event, pledged that Guangdong would continue ensuring the project’s smooth operation, guaranteeing safe and high-quality water for Hong Kong.

The event also featured the exhibition’s launch, with the showcase running until June 13 at Tamar Park and the Central and Western District Promenade. (Xinhua)

Maintenance workers inspect the Dongjiang water supply infrastructure. Photos by Xinhua

Massive water pipes at Sheung Shui Pump Station, Hong Kong.

A poster on the streets of Hong Kong marks the 60th anniversary of the Dongjiang water supply project.

The “Dancing Water Drops” art installation by Simon Ma.

A file photo from 1964 shows workers laboring on the Dongjiang water supply project in Guangdong.

Forest rangers patrol the mountains of Anyuan County, Jiangxi Province — the source of the Dongjiang River.