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Hong Kong: A massive fire broke out in a multi-story residential complex in Hong Kong’s Tai Po district on Wednesday afternoon, wreaking havoc. At least 36 ( kills 36 ) people have died, while dozens are injured. Another 279 are missing. According to the fire department, nine people were found dead at the scene, while four others were rushed to the hospital in critical condition, where they later died.
How the fire took a devastating turn
The rapid spread of the fire was due to bamboo scaffolding erected during renovation work on the building’s exterior. This wooden and bamboo structure carried the flames to the upper floors. Video from the scene showed thick plumes of black smoke billowing from the upper reaches of the building as firefighters used ladders and cranes to rescue people. Many people were seen screaming and pleading for help from windows. Tai Po District Council member Lo Hiu-fung told local TVB, “Most elderly people live in this building. Many are unable to walk. The fire spread rapidly on the top floors, making it difficult to escape.”
700 people evacuated from the building
The fire broke out around 1 p.m. The fire department raised the alert level to Class III to bring it under control by evening. The fire was completely under control by 9 p.m. local time. Following the accident, approximately 700 residents were safely evacuated to temporary shelters set up in nearby schools and community centers. Many families now have no clothes or medicine. Preliminary investigations revealed that the fire started from welding sparks during renovation work. Bamboo scaffolding is commonplace in Hong Kong, but ignoring safety standards often leads to major accidents.
Hong Kong Chief Minister John Lee expressed deep sorrow over the accident and assured all possible assistance to the families of the deceased. Orders have also been given to immediately review fire safety standards in buildings. This is being considered the worst residential fire in Hong Kong in recent years.
