In a catastrophic incident that has shaken Hong Kong, a fire at Wang Fuk Court, an apartment complex in Tai Po, has claimed the lives of at least 128 people, with dozens still unaccounted for. This tragedy has been recognized as the deadliest blaze in the city in the past 70 years.
The fire erupted while the high-rise buildings were undergoing renovations. As the cause remains under investigation, officials reported that the presence of Styrofoam insulation on the exterior of the buildings considerably contributed to the fire's rapid spread. Authorities have detained three individuals overseeing the renovation activities on charges of manslaughter, and a separate corruption inquiry has been launched.
More than 79 people were injured in the inferno, and as rescuers worked tirelessly to extinguish the flames, over 2,300 firefighters were deployed. The situation was exacerbated by the blaze reigniting in certain areas due to intense heat, peaking at 500 degrees Celsius (932 degrees Fahrenheit).
Residents reported a lack of effective fire alarms, and in some cases, alarms had allegedly been turned off by construction workers. As investigations continue, the community is experiencing a shift from shock to outrage, demanding accountability for the tragedy.
Many of the deceased were older residents, with nearly 40% of the relevant population aged 65 or above. As the community mourns, questions regarding fire safety regulations and construction oversight are increasingly coming to the fore.
