deadliest residential tragedies in recent memory. The flames spread rapidly through bamboo scaffolding and flammable netting that covered several towers undergoing renovation.
By Thursday morning, authorities confirmed 55 people dead, including at least one firefighter — among the most tragic losses the city has seen in decades.
At the same time, 279 people remain missing — presumed trapped or unaccounted for.
The Devastation: Lives Lost, Homes Destroyed
The estate comprised eight residential towers that together housed nearly 4,800 residents.
The fire, believed to have started on external scaffolding undergoing renovation, spread to at least seven towers — engulfing entire buildings in flames.
Over 900 residents were evacuated to temporary shelters overnight.
Many survivors described the trauma: elderly residents, families with children, and vulnerable persons now displaced — left with “nothing left,” victims of a disaster they never imagined.
Rescue Efforts & Challenges
Firefighters responded with hundreds of emergency responders, dozens of fire trucks, and ambulances, deploying water from ladder trucks as flames engulfed multiple towers.
However, thick smoke, intense heat, falling debris, and unstable scaffolding severely hampered rescue efforts — making entry into upper floors dangerous and slow.
Several buildings were eventually brought under control, but as night fell, rescue crews continued sifting through rubble, searching for survivors.
Investigation, Blame & Public Outcry
Authorities suspect gross negligence — pointing to flammable materials used in scaffolding netting and possibly non–fire-resistant cladding on the buildings.
Three individuals — directors and an engineering consultant from the renovation firm — have been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter.
This disaster has sparked widespread public outrage and renewed debate over building safety standards, fire regulations, and the use of outdated construction practices in high-density residential complexes.
(FAQ)
Q: What caused the fire at Wang Fuk Court?
A: The fire reportedly started on external bamboo scaffolding and green mesh netting covering the building — part of an ongoing renovation. These materials, possibly not fire retardant, allowed flames to spread quickly across multiple towers.
Q: How many people died or are missing?
A: As of the latest update, 55 people have been confirmed dead, including a firefighter. 279 people remain missing, with many feared trapped or unaccounted for.
Q: How many residents have been displaced?
A: The estate housed nearly 4,800 residents. Over 900 people were evacuated to temporary shelters, but many remain homeless or displaced following the destruction.
Q: Have arrests been made?
A: Yes — three individuals from the renovation firm (directors and an engineering consultant) have been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter, pending investigation into possible negligence.
Q: What is being done to prevent similar disasters?
A: Hong Kong authorities have launched a full investigation. There is public demand for stricter enforcement of fire-safety regulations, review of renovation standards, and reevaluation of use of materials such as bamboo scaffolding and non-fire-rated nets/cladding.
Published by : Deepa R
Published on : 27th November
source credit : Karishma Saurabh Kalita
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