Nine Beaches Rated 'Good' for Water Quality; One 'Fair' Ahead of Swimming Season

Grading of beach water quality released

The Environmental Protection Department (EPD) today (March 7) released the latest grading of water quality for 10 gazetted beaches that are open for swimming, including six that are open to swimmers all year round and four others that are open for swimming since March 1.

Nine beaches were rated as Good (Grade 1), and one as Fair (Grade 2).

Grade 1 beaches are:

Big Wave Bay Beach

Lido Beach

Casam Beach

Repulse Bay Beach

Clear Water Bay Second Beach

Silver Mine Bay Beach

Deep Water Bay Beach

Stanley Main Beach

Golden Beach

Grade 2 beach is:

Silverstrand Beach

Under the present grading system, beaches are classified into four grades, namely Good (Grade 1), Fair (Grade 2), Poor (Grade 3) and Very Poor (Grade 4), according to the level of E. coli in the water. Grades are calculated on the basis of the geometric mean of the E. coli counts on the five most recent sampling occasions.

While the ratings represent the general water quality at the beaches, an EPD spokesman reminded members of the public that water quality could be temporarily affected during and after periods of heavy rain. Bathers should avoid swimming at beaches for up to three days after a tropical cyclone or heavy rainfall.

A summary of beach grades is published weekly before the weekend. The latest beach grades based on the most current data may be obtained from the EPD's website on Beach Water Quality (www.epd.gov.hk/epd/beach) or the beach hotline, 2511 6666. Members of the public can also obtain the latest daily water quality forecast information for all beaches that are open for swimming through the EPD's dedicated webpage on the beach water quality forecast (www.epd.gov.hk/en/BWQForecast).

Hong Kong Customs detects suspected case of illegal importing of animal

Hong Kong Customs today (June 11) detected a suspected case of illegal importing of animal at the Lo Wu Control Point. One suspected illegally imported live cat with an estimated market value of about $15,000 was seized.

Customs officers today intercepted a 60-year-old incoming Chinese man at the Arrival Hall of the Control Point. Upon examination, the live cat was seized from his sling bag, and he was subsequently arrested. The case was handed over to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department for follow-up investigation.

Customs reminds the public that importing animals into Hong Kong without a valid permit is an offence.

Under the Rabies Regulation, any person found guilty of illegally importing animals, carcasses or animal products is liable to a maximum fine of $50,000 and imprisonment for one year.

Hong Kong Customs detects suspected case of illegal importing of animal Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases