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The Water Supplies Department today (March 4) reminds the public that it is illegal to use water from fire service installations for non-fire fighting purposes or to take water through inside services not measured by a meter.
"Offenders are liable for a maximum fine of $5,000," a spokesman for the department said.
The spokesman noted that seven convicted offenders had been fined in the range of $500 to $3,300 for taking water from fire service installations for washing and non-fire fighting purposes last year.
Seven convicted contractors had been fined between $1,000 and $4,000 for illegally using water from the street hydrants and water mains for construction purposes in Tuen Mun, Tin Shiu Wai, Ho Man Tin, North Point, Stanley, Tsuen Wan and Yuen Long.
"In addition, 59 convicted offenders had been fined between $300 and $4,000 for taking unmetered water from the inside services or government sub-mains illegally," he added.
Apart from the above, there were persons convicted of other offences under the Waterworks Ordinance and the Waterworks Regulations last year. The spokesman reminded the public to observe the Waterworks Ordinance and Regulations to avoid breaking the law.
Ends/Saturday, March 4, 2006
Issued at HKT 14:00
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