Hong Kong’s chief executive, John Lee, announced that a tragic fire at a densely populated high-rise residential complex in Tai Po, New Territories, resulted in 36 reported fatalities and 279 individuals reported missing. Additionally, 29 individuals are receiving treatment in hospitals. The fire, which was declared under control just after midnight, led to the evacuation of approximately 700 people to temporary shelters.
The fire, initially reported in the afternoon, escalated to a Level 5 alarm, signifying the highest severity level, as confirmed by the fire department. Firefighters faced challenges due to extreme temperatures, falling debris, and scaffolding. The cause of the fire, which began at the external scaffolding of a building and subsequently spread to neighboring blocks, remains unknown, with windy conditions likely aiding its rapid spread.
Video footage captured multiple buildings engulfed in flames, with firefighters battling the blaze using ladder trucks. The Wang Fuk housing complex, established in 1983, comprises eight blocks with nearly 2,000 apartments accommodating around 4,800 residents. Tragically, among the deceased was a firefighter, while another firefighter was treated for heat exhaustion.
With emergency services deploying 128 fire trucks and 57 ambulances to the scene, efforts were focused on rescuing trapped residents, many of whom were believed to be elderly. Despite the loss of property, affected residents expressed frustration and despair over witnessing the devastating fire.
Located in the New Territories near the border with Shenzhen, Tai Po is a suburban region in Hong Kong. Bamboo scaffolding, commonly utilized in construction projects, has raised safety concerns, prompting the government to consider phasing it out in public projects.
The fire incident has sparked concerns and highlighted the importance of fire safety measures in densely populated urban areas like Hong Kong.