Hong Kong — A catastrophic fire that ripped through a residential high-rise complex in the city’s Tai Po district has turned into one of the worst tragedies in recent memory. The blaze at the 8-tower Wang Fuk Court housing complex killed at least 55 people and left 279 residents missing, authorities confirmed. Rescue efforts remain underway, as distraught families await word on loved ones.
🏚️ What Happened
- The fire broke out on the afternoon of November 26 on the bamboo scaffolding surrounding one of the towers — the external renovation setup quickly caught fire.
- Because the entire estate was under renovation, scaffolding and green mesh enveloped multiple buildings, which helped the flames spread rapidly from one block to another. Within hours, the fire engulfed seven out of the eight towers.
- Firefighters deployed in large numbers — with hundreds of personnel and dozens of firetrucks — battled for hours. Still, many residents reportedly had little time to evacuate, especially elderly and mobility-impaired people.
💔 Human Cost & Aftermath
- Initial official counts confirm 55 dead, but multiple sources — including rescue officials — warned the toll could rise further as more missing persons remain unaccounted for.
- Over 900 residents have been evacuated and are currently staying in temporary shelters, while emergency shelters, relief camps, and aid distributions are being organized across Tai Po.
- The city government has opened a criminal investigation, and three men linked to the construction and renovation company have been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter for alleged use of unsafe materials and gross negligence.
⚠️ What Went Wrong — Experts Point to Flammable Scaffolding & Safety Lapses
Investigators believe the fire’s rapid devastation was fuelled by a combination of:
- Bamboo scaffolding wrapped in flammable mesh and external renovation materials that lacked fire resistance. Under windy conditions, the flames surged up the buildings’ exterior and then entered inner sections.
- Delayed alarms and restricted exits — since the buildings were undergoing maintenance, many fire safety features may have been compromised, slowing down evacuation.
- Potential negligence and regulatory lapses in renovation practices. The arrested construction-company officials are accused of failing to follow safety norms while carrying out “cost-saving” renovation work.
🕯️ Reaction & Relief Efforts
- The fire has triggered outrage and grief across Hong Kong and beyond. Tens of thousands — inmates, workers, residents — have expressed sorrow on social media, calling for stricter building-safety laws.
- A relief fund is being established by the local government, with charities and community organisations mobilising to supply food, clothing, and shelter to displaced residents.
- The disaster has reignited debate on the continued use of traditional bamboo scaffolding in high-rise construction and renovation — with increasing calls to adopt fire-safe alternatives such as metal scaffolding.
