Answers were yesterday demanded to how hygiene inspectors could have visited a factory almost twice a month since 1994 without spotting the illegal use of a well linked to the cholera outbreak.
Legislators, health officials and councillors were stunned that Regional Services Department staff could have visited the factory in Hung Shui Kiu, Yuen Long, yet ignored the disease trap.
Water used in food preparation must come from a mains tap but the factory was using the well to defrost meat and wash utensils.
In addition, sewage from staff toilets was said to have been seeping into the well.
An elderly man is in critical condition after contracting the disease. There are another eight confirmed victims, and three suspected cases.
Another food factory - Jackpot in Tuen Mun - closed voluntarily yesterday after it was found to have a well beside septic tanks containing human waste. A prosecution order may be issued.
