A major five-alarm fire that erupted yesterday (Nov. 26) at the Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po has claimed 44 lives, with the death toll expected to rise. As of this morning, firefighters are still battling the stubborn blaze. The fire has left 45 individuals in serious or critical condition. Among the injured are seven firefighters who were combating the intense flames.
The tragedy struck seven buildings within the estate that were undergoing exterior renovation work, including the installation of scaffolding. Authorities suspect that construction materials used on the external walls failed to meet fire safety standards. Following a swift investigation, three responsible persons from the maintenance engineering company in charge of the works have been arrested.
Today (Nov. 27), police conducted evidence collection operations at the Talex Industrial Centre in Wong Tai Sin in connection with the devastating fire.
Secretary for Security, Chris Tang, stated that firefighters observed the protective netting and waterproof tarpaulins on the building facades burning and spreading fire at a significantly faster rate than compliant materials would. He also noted that the foam plastic boards used were highly flammable, describing the situation as "unusual." He emphasized that the investigation is proceeding with a focus on potential criminal liability.
Background of Controversial Renovation Works
A resident of Wang Fuk Court, Mr. Tang, shared his experience on a radio program this morning. He resides in Hong Cheong House, the first building to catch fire. Fortunately, he was at work, and his children were at school when the fire broke out. His family is safe and currently staying with relatives, but he expressed deep concern for many residents who remain trapped or affected. Mr. Tang mentioned that due to recent typhoon damage, the external protective netting on the buildings had been extensively replaced.
The estate had previously been embroiled in a controversy surrounding a HK$330 million major renovation project over the past two years. Mr. Tang revealed that this issue caused significant dispute among homeowners, with many elderly residents raising questions. Due to the considerable controversy, an owners' meeting subsequently ousted the previously incorporated owners' committee, replacing it with a new one to oversee the renovation matters.
Reports of Smoking on Scaffolding
Addressing online reports from residents who claimed to have seen workers smoking on the scaffolding, Mr. Tang confirmed witnessing this himself. He stated that other residents had "already talked about it, taken photos and videos," which were circulating in resident chat groups. Living on a high floor, he said, "I could even smell smoke in my home."
Regarding the materials used for the scaffolding and netting, Mr. Tang acknowledged that some residents had raised concerns about their safety even before the fire. However, he revealed that after the recent typhoon, the netting was severely damaged and almost entirely replaced and "re-hung." He noted that residents were unclear if there was any difference between the old and new materials, adding, "Ordinary people probably wouldn't notice whether the netting was the same batch or new."
Related News:
Wang Fuk Court No. 5 fire | Firefighters arrive in 5 minutes: Govt responds swiftly
Comment