Fury and Questions Arise After Hong Kong’s Deadliest Fire in Decades

After the horrific fire at Wang Fuk Court, which resulted in at least 94 fatalities, shock is turning into outrage in Hong Kong. This incident marks the city’s deadliest fire in over six decades, with nearly 300 people still unaccounted for. The rapid spread of the fire has raised serious questions about fire safety protocols and building regulations.

Details of the Incident

The fire broke out in a densely populated subsidized housing estate on a Wednesday and was exacerbated by potential safety violations. Authorities suspect that substandard materials, including mesh and plastic sheets used on windows, contributed significantly to the blaze’s ferocity. The fire raged for over a day in parts of the complex, causing widespread destruction and panic.

Key Facts

• Date: Fire occurred on a Wednesday.
• Fatalities: At least 94 confirmed dead.
• Unaccounted Residents: Nearly 300.
• Historical Context: Deadliest fire in Hong Kong in 63 years, surpassing the 1962 Sham Shui Po fire.
• Buildings Involved: Eight 31-storey buildings at Wang Fuk Court; seven caught fire.
• Demographics: Approximately 4,600 residents, with nearly 40% over the age of 65.

Investigations Underway

Three individuals overseeing the renovation works have been arrested on manslaughter charges, prompting an urgent corruption inquiry. Authorities are scrutinizing the building’s fire safety compliance, focusing on whether the materials and construction practices adhered to safety regulations.

Resident Concerns

Residents have expressed grave concerns regarding fire safety measures prior to the incident. Many reported that fire alarms did not activate during the fire. Kiko Ma, a property owner at Wang Fuk Court, noted that alarms had been disabled due to ongoing renovations, which allowed construction workers access through fire escapes.

Government Response

In the wake of the tragedy, Hong Kong authorities are conducting inspections of all housing estates undergoing significant repairs. The goal is to assess the safety of scaffolding and building materials used in renovations. The use of bamboo scaffolding, due to its combustibility, has come under particular scrutiny.

Community Reaction

Public sentiment is rife with anger and skepticism. Many residents worry about the potential for similar incidents in the future. Some homeowners feel that a lack of transparency in management decisions led to unsafe renovation practices. The local community is calling for investigations into how safety protocols were managed and whether effective oversight was in place.

The Wang Fuk Court fire serves as a grim reminder of the need for stringent safety standards and vigilant regulatory practices in Hong Kong’s construction industry.