The Drainage Services Department recently launched the “Yuen Long Flood Barrier and Nullah Improvement Scheme – Mid-Autumn Light Show,” an inaugural event intended to revitalize the Yuen Long nullah area for the holiday. However, the event, which was scheduled for two days, faced immediate scrutiny from the public following its opening night on Saturday.

Attendees took to social media to express their dissatisfaction, primarily citing a pervasive foul smell emanating from the nullah, which undermined the festive atmosphere. Beyond the environmental concerns, critics also pointed to what they described as poor execution of the light display itself. While the government aimed to transform the drainage infrastructure into a community attraction, the initial reception suggests a disconnect between the department's vision and the public's experience. There is currently no official response from the Drainage Services Department regarding the specific complaints about the odor or the technical execution of the light show.