A catastrophic fire has ripped through a major Hong Kong public housing complex, claiming at least 83 lives and injuring over 100 people. This devastating blaze, which erupted at the Wang Fuk Court estate in Tai Po, is being investigated as one of the city’s deadliest disasters in recent history. Firefighters battled the inferno for over 24 hours, with extreme heat and falling debris hampering rescue efforts. Over 200 residents are still unaccounted for, raising fears the death toll could rise further. The complex, home to thousands including many elderly residents, was undergoing renovations, a process that involved extensive bamboo scaffolding and safety netting. Authorities are now examining whether flammable materials used in the renovation, such as polystyrene boards found near windows, contributed to the rapid spread of the fire. Three men linked to the renovation project have been arrested on suspicion of gross negligence, as early findings suggest construction materials did not meet safety standards. The fire rapidly engulfed scaffolding, spreading from one tower to at least seven of the eight blocks within the estate. A firefighter was among those who lost their lives. Efforts are underway to determine why evacuations were not faster, as hundreds of residents have been displaced amid a critical housing shortage. The government is providing temporary shelters and dedicated social worker support for affected families. This incident has ignited scrutiny over Hong Kong’s long-standing use of bamboo scaffolding, prompting a citywide inspection of construction sites and materials. The cause remains under investigation.
