Tragic Hong Kong High-Rise Fire Claims at Least 13 Lives
A devastating fire at a high-rise housing complex in Hong Kong has led to the tragic loss of at least 13 lives, with many others still unaccounted for. The incident unfolded on Wednesday at the Wang Fuk Court housing estate in Tai Po, a densely populated suburban area.
Incident Overview
The fire broke out in the afternoon, with reports reaching the fire department at 2:51 PM local time. As the flames spread, the situation escalated quickly, prompting the authorities to upgrade the alarm to the highest level, a “No. 5 alarm.”
Impact on Residents
Images from the scene captured terrifying moments, showing multiple buildings ablaze and black smoke filling the sky. It was reported that numerous residents were trapped inside, with one witness, a 71-year-old man named Wong, crying as he feared for his wife.
Injuries and Casualties
Among the victims, three individuals suffered critical injuries due to burns, while another was reported in serious condition. Other injuries included those sustained by firefighters as they fought the blaze. Many emergency vehicles, including fire engines and ambulances, were present at the scene.
Complex Details
- Housing Estate: Wang Fuk Court
- Location: Tai Po District, Hong Kong
- Number of Apartments: Approximately 2,000
- Established: 1983
Construction and Safety Concerns
The complex is notable for its use of bamboo scaffolding, a traditional method in Hong Kong. Recently, the government indicated plans to phase out bamboo scaffolding in favor of metal frameworks due to safety concerns.
Community Response
Residents and onlookers gathered on a nearby overhead walkway, watching the fire unfold with despair. The fire’s intensity was such that it affected nearby infrastructure, closing a section of Tai Po Road, a major highway in the area.
Previous Incidents
This tragedy marks another disturbing event in Hong Kong’s history of fire-related accidents in residential buildings. In April of the previous year, a fire in Kowloon resulted in five fatalities, highlighting ongoing safety issues in high-density living environments.
