Hey everyone, Hong Kong’s Fire Services Department (FSD) confirmed that early this morning, all visible flames at Wang Fuk Court were doused by around 5:30 a.m. Firefighters have now shifted focus to a thorough search of all eight buildings, aiming to wrap up by 9 a.m. today. 🔥🚒
This affordable housing complex from 1983 houses about 4,000 residents in 1,984 units. When the blaze hit Wednesday afternoon, every block was covered in green mesh and scaffolding—the metal poles and platforms used during renovations—which sadly helped the flames spread from one building to six others. 🏗️😔
Sadly, the death toll has climbed to 94. So far, 117 ambulances joined the rescue efforts, and authorities have arrested three men on suspicion of manslaughter after finding flammable materials on the scaffolding. Meanwhile, the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) has launched a probe into potential corruption in the renovation project. 🏥👮♂️
Chief Executive of the HKSAR, John Lee, announced that:
• Each fire-hit household will receive a HKD 10,000 cash grant (~USD 1,286) 💸
• Nine emergency shelters are open to residents 🏘️
• In the longer term, about 1,800 transitional housing units will be set up using public and private resources 🏠
The HKSAR government is also ordering a city-wide safety inspection of all scaffolding and construction materials used in renovation projects. Let’s hope these steps bring real relief to those affected and help prevent future tragedies. 🙏
Stay safe out there and keep an eye on updates as authorities work around the clock. ⚡
Reference(s):
Fire-fighting operation completed in Hong Kong residential complex
cgtn.com
