Hong Kong observes three days of mourning after deadly high-rise fire

Hong Kong is observing a three-day period of mourning after a catastrophic fire tore through a residential complex, claiming many lives. Officials urge calm as investigators search for the cause and review safety standards in renovation projects.

What happened

On Wednesday evening, flames swept through seven of the eight towers at Wang Fuk Court in the Tai Po district, a northern suburb of the city. The toll reached 128, with 83 people injured and around 150 still unaccounted for. Firefighters, numbering more than 2,000, took nearly two days to bring the blaze under control.

Building safety and possible causes

Investigators say the fire spread rapidly due to materials placed on the building exterior and netting around scaffolding that helped flames move between blocks. The towers were wrapped in bamboo scaffolding, a common sight during repairs in Hong Kong, which has sparked debate about its safety and use in high-rise projects.

Arrests and investigations

Eight people linked to the renovation work have been arrested on suspicion of corruption, while three others were detained earlier on manslaughter charges. The Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) is leading investigations alongside police as evidence is gathered at the scene. Officials say 16 checks on Wang Fuk Court works have been conducted since July last year.

Public response and memorials

A three-minute moment of silence was observed during a ceremony outside the government headquarters on Saturday, led by the city's chief executive and other officials. Flags flew at half-mast, and the government set up memorial points around the city where residents can pay respect and sign condolence books.

What comes next

Authorities say the inquiry will continue in the coming weeks as investigators determine the exact cause and assess safety rules for future renovations. Wang Fuk Court estate, built in 1983, housed about 2,000 apartments for roughly 4,600 residents, according to a 2021 census.

Expert comment: The tragedy highlights the need for stricter enforcement of building safety rules, especially regarding exterior cladding and scaffolding. Investigators must determine any compliance failures to prevent a similar disaster.

Short summary: Hong Kong is in mourning after a deadly high-rise fire at Wang Fuk Court killed 128 people and left many displaced. Investigations focus on building materials, renovation practices, and accountability, with several arrests already made. Public tributes and memorials have begun, while the city reviews safety standards for future high-rise work.

Key takeaway: The incident underscores urgent questions about high-rise safety, building materials, and oversight of renovation work in Hong Kong. Source