A significant fire in Hong Kong’s Tai Po district on Wednesday has resulted in the deaths of at least 146 people, according to the police, who have stated that the number could rise as approximately 150 individuals remain missing and 79 others are injured. The fire erupted at the Wang Fuk Court housing complex, affecting seven of its eight tower blocks. There are allegations that flammable construction materials may have contributed to the rapid spread of the fire.
Following this tragic incident, a three-day national mourning period commenced on Saturday, drawing thousands of residents to the site to pay their respects. Long queues, reportedly stretching up to 2 kilometers, have formed as people lay flowers and write messages of condolence. Observances included a moment of silence and flags at half-staff.
The blaze, which took over 2,000 firefighters to control, peaked at a temperature of 500°C (932°F) and was not fully extinguished until Friday morning. Initial investigations are ongoing, and police are gathering evidence from the scene, which they anticipate will take three to four weeks. So far, searches of four tower blocks have been completed.
Among the deceased are seven Indonesian nationals and one Filipino, as confirmed by their respective consulates. Additionally, firefighter Ho Wai-ho has been reported among the casualties. The investigation has led to the arrests of eight individuals on charges of corruption related to the renovations occurring at the site, as well as several suspects on manslaughter charges.
The incident has raised concerns regarding safety protocols in high-rise buildings, especially given reports that fire alarms were not functioning in any of the impacted blocks. Furthermore, the use of bamboo scaffolding in construction has come under scrutiny. Wang Fuk Court, established in 1983, housed nearly 4,600 residents, many of whom are elderly and have lived there since its construction.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cp34yk7z6yxo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss