Fire Safety Checks Ordered Across Hong Kong After Wang Fuk Court Blaze
In the wake of the devastating fire at the Wang Fuk Court housing complex, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government has issued a critical directive: all scaffolding nets used in building maintenance projects across the city must be removed within three days for comprehensive fire safety inspections. This swift action comes as a direct response to the tragic incident that has left a profound impact on the community.
According to Bernadette Linn, secretary for development of the HKSAR government, the removed materials will be carefully evaluated and, if deemed safe under new, stringent safety standards, will be returned for use. These new safety rubrics are set to be unveiled by the government next week, ensuring a thorough and transparent process.
The fire, which broke out on Wednesday, has claimed 159 lives by 2 p.m., with 31 individuals still unaccounted for. The Hong Kong Police Force, in a press briefing, revealed that a total of 140 bodies have been identified, representing a diverse age range from 1 to 97 years old. The police have meticulously searched all seven affected buildings and are now expanding their efforts to the surrounding areas, carefully removing scaffolding and ashes to ensure the safety of the operation.
The investigation has taken a significant turn as the police arrested six individuals linked to a contractor responsible for installing fire safety equipment. These individuals are accused of allegedly deceiving the Fire Services Department, claiming that fire alarms would function during maintenance for the Wang Fuk Court buildings. Additionally, inquiries have been launched into alleged document forgery related to the use of renovation materials.
The HKSAR government has also taken proactive measures to provide financial support to those affected. Tax relief and fee waivers are being rolled out, and as of Wednesday noon, the disaster-relief fund for Wang Fuk Court residents had accumulated a substantial amount of 2.4 billion Hong Kong dollars (approximately $308 million).
The support extends beyond financial aid, with targeted assistance in healthcare and education. The Health Bureau is covering all medical, medication, and rehabilitation costs for fire victims, ensuring that residents of the eight affected buildings, including foreign domestic helpers, receive comprehensive medical care until December 31, 2026. The Education Bureau is providing a special grant of 20,000 Hong Kong dollars to each student from Wang Fuk Court for school supplies or transportation.
Furthermore, the Hong Kong and Macao Work Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee has been instrumental in ensuring the timely delivery of disaster-relief supplies, including essential items like protective goggles and waterproof gloves, which are crucial for the ongoing relief efforts.
