Fire devastates a Hong Kong high-rise complex, leaving multiple dead and residents trapped

Hadisur Rahman, JadeTimes Staff

H. Rahman is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Asia

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Image Source: Reuters

A catastrophic blaze tore through a high rise residential complex in Hong Kong leaving at least 13 people dead and many others trapped as emergency crews battled the flames into the evening. Nine victims were confirmed dead at the scene and four more succumbed to injuries at hospital, officials said. The disaster has prompted a large scale evacuation with about 700 residents moved into temporary shelters.

The Wang Fuk Court complex in the Tai Po district comprises eight blocks housing nearly two thousand apartments. Fire authorities indicated that the fires affected multiple towers within the 31 storey development, with the blaze spreading rapidly in the afternoon hours. Authorities reported that some residents remained unaccounted for as search and rescue operations continued into the night.

Investigators noted that flames were fed by bamboo scaffolding around the exterior of the buildings, a common sight during renovations in the city. Renovation work was underway at the site when the fire started, according to local media accounts. Firefighters were observed directing high water streams from elevated ladder platforms in an intense response to the inferno.

Three people are listed in critical condition after suffering severe burns, while additional injuries have been reported among residents and responders. A number of firefighters sustained injuries during the lengthy operation, underscoring the dangers faced by crews attempting to bring the blaze under control.

Tai Po, located in the northern part of Hong Kong near the border with Shenzhen, has faced heightened attention over safety practices in public housing projects. Bamboo scaffolding has drawn scrutiny in recent years as part of broader discussions about renovation standards and worker protections.

Emergency services and government agencies are coordinating ongoing assessments of damage and safety in the aftermath of the incident. Local authorities urged residents to remain away from affected areas as investigations continue and rescue efforts persist throughout the night.