A fifth of Hong Kong families often experience impurities and discolouration in their tap water, according to a survey on drinking water quality.
The New Forum phone-interviewed 1,461 residents aged 15 to 65 about the quality of their household drinking water last month and early this month.
Tests prompted by complaints showed that a high iron content had caused noticeable colour and turbidity in water samples collected from several Kwun Tong estates, according to the group.
But the Water Supplies Department said the average iron value in water supplies across Hong Kong was very low. More than 21 per cent of respondents said they often found their drinking water to be yellowish, while 18.8 per cent said they often found impurities.
About 14 per cent of respondents said they often detected a suspicious smell and taste in their drinking water.
Some 8 per cent of respondents reported having all of the above.