A tragic fire in Hong Kong has resulted in the loss of at least 128 lives, marking one of the deadliest incidents in the city’s history. The fire occurred on Wednesday, engulfing seven tower blocks in the Wang Fuk Court housing estate located in Tai Po district. At least 83 individuals sustained injuries, while authorities are still trying to locate 150 missing residents.
Three-Day Mourning Period Initiated
The Hong Kong government has declared a three-day mourning period, beginning with a moment of silence observed outside government headquarters. City leader John Lee and other officials participated in the ceremony, where flags of Hong Kong and China were flown at half-mast.
Ongoing Investigation and Arrests
Authorities are actively investigating the fire’s cause, which remains undetermined as of now. Initial reports suggest that flammable materials, such as polystyrene and plastic scaffolding, may have contributed to the fire’s rapid spread. In response to the tragedy, eight individuals have been arrested on suspicion of corruption related to renovation works, while three others face manslaughter charges.
Fire Response Efforts
More than 2,000 firefighters worked tirelessly for nearly two days to control the blaze. Concerns about the effectiveness of fire alarms were raised by residents, who reported multiple alarms that had failed to operate. The Hong Kong Fire Services stated that the alarms in all affected tower blocks were malfunctioning.
Community Reactions and Memorials
The fire has sparked public outrage regarding safety protocols in high-rise buildings. The Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) has begun gathering evidence and complaints from residents regarding the renovation work and the condition of fire safety measures.
Statistics of Wang Fuk Court
- Year Built: 1983
- Number of Apartments: 1,984
- Estimated Residents: Approx. 4,600 (2021 census)
Memorial points have been established throughout the city where residents can pay their respects. This tragedy has ignited discussions about building safety standards and accountability for negligence within the construction industry.
