President Xi Jinping extends his condolences to the families affected by the deadly fire in Tai Po, Hong Kong SAR, this Wednesday afternoon 😔🙏.
The blaze broke out around 2:51 p.m., and Fire Services teams quickly stepped in. By 6:22 p.m., the alarm level was raised to No. 5 due to the fierce flames. Tragically, at least 14 residents lost their lives, including a 37-year-old firefighter who died in the line of duty. Rescue operations are still ongoing.
Xi, who also serves as general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Premier Commission, reached out immediately for updates on the casualties and the progress of the rescue. He instructed the head of the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the HKSAR to convey his deep sympathies to Chief Executive John Lee and all those affected.
He also called on the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council and the Liaison Office to fully support the HKSAR government’s emergency response, including:
- Extinguishing the fire
- Searching for and rescuing anyone trapped
- Treating the injured
- Offering assistance and comfort to affected residents
This incident is a stark reminder of how vital it is to have robust emergency systems in place, especially in our densely populated cities. Stay safe and look out for official updates as Tai Po continues to fight back from this tragedy. 🚒
Reference(s):
Xi extends condolences, urges all-out Tai Po fire rescue efforts
cgtn.com
