Massive Fire in Hong Kong’s Tai Po District Claims 13 Lives and Injures Several Others

A devastating fire engulfed multiple high-rise residential towers in Hong Kong’s Tai Po district, leading to the deaths of at least 13 individuals and injuring more than 15 people. The incident occurred at the Wang Fuk Court housing complex, a large residential estate currently under renovation. The fire, which escalated rapidly due to surrounding bamboo scaffolding, has become one of the most severe blazes reported in Hong Kong in almost two decades. Firefighters, emergency personnel, and government authorities have been working tirelessly to control the situation and support affected families.

Fire Breaks Out in Wang Fuk Court Housing Complex

The fire erupted on Wednesday afternoon at approximately 14:51 local time. Within minutes, huge flames spread across several tower blocks. According to officials, the fire began in the middle section of the complex, quickly traveling upwards and sideways due to the external bamboo scaffolding that surrounded the buildings for renovation purposes.

Bamboo scaffolding is widely used in Hong Kong for its flexibility and strength. However, in this case, it appears to have accelerated the spread of the flames. Thick grey smoke and intense red flames could be seen covering multiple towers as firefighters struggled to contain the blaze.

Short Summary Table

Firefighters Respond with Massive Deployment

Authorities confirmed that around 767 firefighters and emergency personnel were deployed in the rescue operation. Within forty minutes, the fire alarm was raised from the initial alert to a level four alarm. By 18:22, the fire was upgraded again to a level five alarm, which is the highest emergency category in Hong Kong.

Despite the scale of the fire, firefighting teams continued to work into the night. Teams wearing full protective gear entered smoke-filled corridors and stairwells to rescue residents trapped inside apartments.

Casualty Update and Loss of a Firefighter

In a press briefing on Wednesday night, Hong Kong officials confirmed that the death toll had risen to 13. Nine of the victims were declared dead on-site, while the others succumbed to injuries in hospitals.

One of the deceased was a firefighter identified as Ho Wai Ho, aged 37. He had served in the department for nine years. Authorities reported that communication with him was lost for about thirty minutes during the rescue operations, and he was later found collapsed inside the building.

Director of Fire Services Andy Yeung described Ho as a dedicated and courageous member of the force whose loss has deeply affected the entire department.

Evacuation Efforts and Public Safety Measures

To protect residents in the vicinity, police evacuated nearby buildings and cordoned off a large area around the housing complex. Public roads were closed, and more than 30 bus routes were diverted by the Transport Department.

The government also set up temporary shelters for displaced residents, including facilities at Kwong Fuk Community Hall and the Tung Cheong Street Leisure Building. A help desk has been established at the Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital to provide assistance and information to affected families. A hotline has also been activated to respond to public inquiries and support requests.

Details About the Wang Fuk Court Housing Estate

The Wang Fuk Court housing estate consists of eight high-rise towers that provide nearly 2,000 residential units, accommodating nearly 4,000 residents. Ongoing renovation work had required the installation of bamboo scaffolding around the exterior of the buildings. While bamboo scaffolding has traditionally been a key part of construction in Asia due to its strength and flexibility, recent discussions within the Hong Kong government have raised concerns over its safety.

In March earlier this year, Hong Kong’s Development Bureau suggested plans to gradually reduce the use of bamboo scaffolding and shift toward metal frameworks to enhance safety standards.

Historical Context of Level 5 Fires in Hong Kong

The current incident marks the first level five alarm fire in Hong Kong in 17 years. The last such event occurred in 2008 when a major fire broke out at Cornwall Court in Mong Kok, resulting in the deaths of four people. That building, constructed in 1962, suffered severe structural damage and prompted citywide reviews of fire safety protocols.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What caused the fire in the Tai Po district housing complex

The exact cause is still under investigation. However, the fire spread rapidly due to the presence of bamboo scaffolding used during renovation.

2. How many people have died in the incident

Authorities have confirmed that at least 13 individuals lost their lives.

3. What emergency level was declared during the fire

The fire was raised from a level four to a level five alarm, which is Hong Kong’s highest emergency classification.

4. How many firefighters were deployed

Approximately 767 firefighters and emergency responders were involved in controlling the blaze.

5. Which government facilities are providing support

Temporary shelters and help desks have been set up at Kwong Fuk Community Hall, Tung Cheong Street Leisure Building, and Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital.

Conclusion

The Tai Po district fire stands as a tragic reminder of the importance of fire safety reforms, especially in high-rise residential structures. With 13 lives lost, including that of a devoted firefighter, and many families displaced, the incident has triggered a renewed discussion about the safety risks associated with traditional construction methods and renovation practices. Investigations are ongoing to determine the exact cause of the blaze, and the authorities have assured the public that support measures will continue for all affected individuals.

For More Information Click HERE