The Drainage Services Department will strengthen the Sheung Wan Flood Watch service by issuing SMS and voice messages to subscribers when red or black rainstorm warnings are issued.

As the district's low-lying areas are vulnerable to flooding, the department will deploy staff and contractors to clear blocked drains whenever the amber rainstorm warning is issued. People can also call the Flood Watch hotline 3588 9990 for the latest situation.

To solve the flooding problem the department is laying an intercepting drain in Queen's Road Central, which is due for completion in mid-2008. A stormwater pumping station will also be built on the Sheung Wan harbourfront. The station's underground storage tank will be complete by early 2009.