Tragic Fire Claims 13 Lives in Hong Kong Residential Complex

A devastating fire swept through a residential complex in Tai Po district, Hong Kong, claiming the lives of 13 individuals and injuring at least 15 others. The incident occurred on Wednesday afternoon, with flames rapidly engulfing seven apartment blocks that were covered in bamboo scaffolding, a construction method still prevalent in the region. Authorities reported that nine victims were pronounced dead at the scene, with an additional four succumbing to their injuries after being transported to the hospital. The fire prompted a massive evacuation effort, with around 700 residents being relocated to temporary shelters as firefighters battled the rising inferno throughout the evening. The blaze erupted in mid-afternoon and quickly spread across the external scaffolding and construction netting, creating a scene of chaos as thick smoke and flames poured from the windows of multiple towers. Eyewitness accounts and video footage captured the alarming sight, showing firefighters fighting the flames from ladder trucks as night fell. The Hong Kong Fire Services Department dispatched an extensive response team, including 128 fire trucks and 57 ambulances. Tragically, a firefighter was among those who perished in the disaster, while another sustained heat exhaustion during the efforts to control the fire. Andy Yeung, the Fire Services Director, confirmed the casualty among firefighters and emphasized the intense rescue operations undertaken by the department. The police were inundated with reports of individuals trapped inside the buildings, with a particular focus on elderly residents, as noted by Lo Hiufung, a member of the Tai Po District Council who spoke to local media. The housing estate comprises eight blocks housing nearly 2,000 apartments and accommodating approximately 4,800 residents, according to local records. As the community grappled with the aftermath of the fire, district officials arranged temporary shelters for the displaced residents. One of the affected residents, identified only by the surname Wu, expressed feelings of powerlessness as they watched their home succumb to the flames, stating, 'I’ve given up thinking about my property. Watching it burn like that was really frustrating.' Tai Po, a suburban area situated near the border with Shenzhen, has been marked by the tragedy. Bamboo scaffolding, frequently utilized for construction and renovation in Hong Kong, has long raised safety concerns. In response to these issues, the government announced plans earlier this year to begin phasing out bamboo scaffolding for public projects as part of a broader safety initiative. This catastrophic event has left a lasting impact on the community as residents mourn their losses and reflect on the fragility of life amidst the devastation. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2 • Source 3