A massive fire ripped through a residential high-rise complex in Wang Fuk Court in the Tai Po District of Hong Kong, killing at least 44 people and leaving hundreds unaccounted for, authorities said. Rescue operations are ongoing as the blaze one of the deadliest in Hong Kong’s recent history continues to smolder.
What Happened: From Scaffolding Sparks to Full-Scale Disaster
The fire reportedly began Wednesday afternoon around 14:50 local time on external scaffolding of one tower undergoing renovation. The complex, with eight high-rise blocks and roughly 2,000 apartments housing nearly 4,800 people, quickly became engulfed. Flames spread with alarming speed, fueled by bamboo scaffolding, construction netting, and potentially flammable materials used in renovation.
As the fire raged, chunks of burning scaffolding and debris tumbled to the ground. Smoke thickened and blackened the sky over Tai Po. Video from the scene showed flames still leaping from at least two of the 32-storey towers more than 20 hours after the blaze began.
Firefighters deployed more than 120 fire trucks and dozens of ambulances. Nearly 800 fire personnel struggled against extreme heat, falling debris, and intense smoke to reach trapped residents. But rising temperatures inside the buildings and collapsing scaffolding severely hampered rescue efforts.
Toll of Tragedy: Deaths, Missing, Displaced
As of early Thursday, authorities confirmed 44 deaths, including at least one firefighter. At least 62 others were hurt many with serious burns or inhalation injuries. Meanwhile, 279 people remain missing or unaccounted for, according to official tallies.
Around 900 residents were evacuated and now stay in temporary shelters. Many more have lost their homes and are traumatized.
Responsibility and Arrests: Negligence Under Scrutiny
Within hours of the blaze, local police arrested three individuals linked to the construction firm responsible for the renovation two directors and an engineering consultant on suspicion of manslaughter due to “gross negligence.” They are being investigated for failing to use fire-safe materials and thus contributing to the rapid spread of the fire.
Authorities said construction netting, plastic sheeting, and foam-sealed windows used during maintenance might not have met fire-resistance standards greatly increasing the risk.
Reaction: Shock, Grief and Growing Concerns
The scale of the disaster has left people across Hong Kong stunned. Residents of Tai Po described harrowing scenes of flames engulfing homes, frantic evacuations, and loved ones unaccounted for.
Local and national leaders have called for a full investigation. John Lee, Hong Kong’s Chief Executive, described the blaze as a “major disaster,” pledging support for victims and affected families. Meanwhile, critics and housing-safety advocates warn this tragedy underscores long-standing problems with construction practices, fire safety oversight, and emergency preparedness especially in crowded, high-density housing estates.
What Comes Next: Rescue, Recovery and Reform?
Rescue teams continue to comb through the charred towers, hoping to find more survivors or recover remains. But even if the fire is extinguished soon, the human and social cost will take years to heal.
The arrests mark the start of what many expect will be a broader investigation into building safety, materials used in renovations, and regulatory enforcement. Experts say reforms are likely needed including stricter fire-safety standards for scaffolding, exterior materials, and emergency exits to prevent such a catastrophe from repeating.
For now, Hong Kong mourns. Families search for missing loved ones. Survivors grapple with loss and trauma. And an entire city is forced to confront the risks lurking behind its towering skyline.
Originally written by:TOI World Desk
