At least 44 people have died in a massive fire that erupted in public housing apartments in Hong Kong’s Tai Po district, with authorities reporting that more than 270 residents remain unaccounted for.
The blaze, which has engulfed multiple towers at Wang Fuk Court for over 18 hours, has prompted the arrest of three construction company executives on suspicion of manslaughter. Investigators believe flammable materials, including mesh and plastic sheeting left during ongoing maintenance work, may have caused the fire to spread rapidly.
Firefighters continue their efforts to control the inferno. “The smoke is thick, and its smell lingers in the air,” said a correspondent at the scene, as plumes of black smoke tower over the estate. The fire has been classified as a level five emergency, Hong Kong’s highest fire alert.
Hong Kong’s Deadliest Fire in Over Six Decades
This tragedy marks the deadliest fire in Hong Kong in at least 63 years. The current death toll has already matched the 1962 Sham Shui Po disaster, which claimed 44 lives and left hundreds homeless after fireworks stored in a building ignited and spread flames quickly.
Previous major fires in the city include the 1996 Garley Building blaze in Kowloon, which killed 41 people, and the 1948 warehouse explosion in which 176 lost their lives due to hazardous materials stored on the premises.
Fire Rips Through High-Rise Housing Estate
The fire, described as one of the worst in decades, started Wednesday afternoon in an eight-building complex housing around 2,000 apartments. Intense flames were first seen on bamboo scaffolding erected for ongoing repairs. Residents reported hearing loud cracking sounds as flames consumed the scaffolding, sending smoke and embers into the sky.
A 65-year-old resident, surnamed Yuen, said many elderly neighbors were trapped due to closed windows during maintenance, and some were only alerted by phone calls from fellow residents. “I’m devastated. Many couldn’t evacuate on time,” he said.
Authorities reported that 56 people are being treated in hospitals, with 16 in critical condition, 24 in serious condition, and 16 stable. City leader John Lee confirmed that 279 residents were still unaccounted for, though some were later located. More than 900 people have sought refuge in temporary shelters.
Rescue Efforts and Ongoing Challenges
Deputy Fire Service Director Derek Armstrong Chan noted that some floors remain inaccessible due to extreme heat, making it difficult to reach those calling for help. Officials said the fire may have spread between buildings because of wind and flying debris, while the investigation into the cause continues.
Police have seized documents linked to the three arrested executives, who are suspected of “gross negligence” in leaving flammable materials at the site.
Personal Accounts and Govt Response
Residents expressed shock and concern. “The fire is heartbreaking. All we can do is hope everyone returns safely,” said 57-year-old Tai Po resident So. Another apartment owner, in his 40s, called for immediate government assistance for those displaced.
Chinese President Xi Jinping extended condolences to the victims, including the 37-year-old firefighter who died in the line of duty, while local authorities pledged full support to those affected. Roads near the site have been closed, and evacuation of nearby blocks continues.
Although Hong Kong has strengthened fire safety measures over the years, this tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the risks posed by flammable materials in densely populated residential complexes.
Source: BBC & NDTV
