Four dead, dozens feared trapped as fire sweeps Hong Kong high-rises

A devastating fire tore through multiple high-rise residential buildings in Hong Kong’s Tai Po district on Wednesday, leaving at least four people dead and several others injured, according to government officials.

Authorities say two people remain in critical condition and another is stable. One of the victims was a firefighter, Hong Kong’s fire service confirmed to the BBC.

Emergency crews are still working to determine how many residents may be trapped inside the Wang Fuk Court complex, where the blaze broke out late Wednesday. Reuters reports that several people are believed to still be inside the towers, citing preliminary police information shared by Hong Kong public broadcaster RTHK.

Dramatic footage shows flames racing up the exterior of the buildings, with thick smoke engulfing at least three of the estate’s eight towers. Images from the scene show the fire rapidly spreading across bamboo scaffolding that had been erected as part of renovation work.

Scaffolding under scrutiny

The complex is currently undergoing restoration work and was covered in bamboo scaffolding – an iconic but increasingly debated form of construction in Hong Kong. Built by tying bamboo poles with nylon fasteners, the structure is known for being lightweight, strong and quick to assemble.

However, local media earlier reported that the government has been seeking to phase out bamboo scaffolding due to safety concerns. Authorities have not yet confirmed what caused the blaze or whether the scaffolding contributed to its spread.

Residents displaced; shelters opened

Wang Fuk Court is home to roughly 4,000 residents across 1,984 flats. The fire is expected to have far-reaching effects on the community, many of whom were forced to evacuate with little warning.

The Hong Kong government has opened temporary shelters at Kwong Fuk Community Hall and the Tung Cheong Street Leisure Building. 

Officials say more shelters will open if needed.

Unanswered questions

As rescue operations continue, the full extent of the disaster remains unclear. Fire crews told Reuters they do not yet know how many people were inside the buildings at the time the blaze erupted.

Authorities have not speculated on the cause of the fire.

“This is still an active emergency situation,” officials said, adding that updates will be provided as information becomes available.

Source: BBC