A devastating fire that ripped through a public housing complex in Hong Kong has claimed at least 65 lives, with hundreds more reported missing, marking the city's deadliest blaze in over seven decades.
Desperate Rescue Efforts Amidst Extreme Conditions
Firefighters in Hong Kong battled for more than a day to bring the massive inferno under control. The fire engulfed seven high-rise blocks at the Wang Fuk Court complex in the Tai Po district. Rescue teams faced immense challenges, including extreme heat and collapsed scaffolding, which severely hampered their desperate search for survivors trapped inside the flats.
Flammable Scaffolding and Gross Negligence Suspected
Authorities have pointed to the use of highly flammable bamboo scaffolding and what they describe as grossly negligent construction practices as the primary reasons for the fire's terrifyingly rapid spread. In response to the tragedy, police have arrested three construction company executives on suspicion of manslaughter.
Government Response and a Push for Change
Hong Kong's leader, John Lee, has announced a substantial HK$300 million relief fund for the victims and their families. Furthermore, he has initiated discussions to replace traditional bamboo scaffolding with metal alternatives in a bid to prevent a similar catastrophe in the future. This incident, the worst of its kind in 77 years, has displaced thousands of residents, prompting a significant outpouring of corporate and charitable donations for ongoing relief efforts.
