🚨 On Wednesday, the HKSAR government ordered the removal of scaffolding nets across all building maintenance projects in Hong Kong within three days. The move aims to boost fire safety checks after the deadly blaze at Wang Fuk Court, a public housing complex in Tai Po District.
Secretary for Development Bernadette Linn said the removed nets and scaffolding materials will be returned to use once approved under new safety guidelines due next week. The fire claimed 159 lives by 2 pm on Wednesday, and 31 people remain unaccounted for.
The Hong Kong Police Force has completed the search for remains inside all seven affected buildings and is now extending efforts to nearby areas, carefully clearing collapsed scaffolding and ash under safe conditions.
Authorities arrested six people linked to a contractor accused of misleading the Fire Services Department about fire alarm maintenance. Investigations are also underway into alleged document forgery related to renovation materials.
To support residents, the HKSAR government rolled out tax relief and fee waivers. By Wednesday noon, the Wang Fuk Court disaster-relief fund had raised 2.4 billion HKD (about 308 million USD). The Health Bureau will cover all medical and rehabilitation costs, and public medical fees are waived until December 31, 2026, for residents of the eight affected buildings, including foreign domestic helpers.
The Education Bureau is providing 20,000 HKD in special aid per student from Wang Fuk Court for school supplies and transport. Meanwhile, the Hong Kong and Macao Work Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee continues delivering disaster-relief supplies from the Chinese mainland, like protective goggles and waterproof gloves.
As investigations and recovery efforts continue, these measures aim to prevent future tragedies and support a community in grief. 🕯️
Reference(s):
Fire safety checks ordered across Hong Kong after Wang Fuk Court blaze
cgtn.com
