When a devastating fire tore through the Wang Fuk Court residential complex in Tai Po on Wednesday afternoon, the response from the Chinese mainland was swift and comprehensive. Rescue teams, medical supplies, donations and advanced equipment poured into the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) as authorities, businesses and volunteers united to support relief efforts.
Coordinated Government Support
The Hong Kong and Macao Work Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee formed a work team that arrived in Hong Kong on Thursday morning to coordinate relief operations. Under its guidance, Guangdong Province mobilized:
- Specialized rescue equipment, including illuminating drones and robotic exoskeletons
- Advanced fire protective gear, such as reinforced firefighting boots
- Medical supplies and essential consumables
These resources were delivered in two batches on Thursday and Friday, while Guangdong’s fire and rescue teams joined search and rescue operations on the ground.
Funding and Humanitarian Aid
Guided by the All-China Women’s Federation, multiple institutions pooled a fund of 5 million yuan (about $706,324) for emergency rescue, resettlement and post-disaster recovery. The Red Cross Society of China donated 2 million yuan to the Hong Kong Red Cross, with follow-up support pledged as needed.
Corporate and Community Contributions
Mainland businesses and citizens have stepped up their efforts:
- Total donations from companies across technology, e-commerce and logistics have surpassed HK$600 million (about $77.12 million).
- Emergency supplies—blankets, food and water—arrived daily at temporary shelters.
- Volunteers organized fundraisers, transported goods, and offered online psychological counselling.
- China Merchants Group launched an emergency logistics platform and set up a HK$20 million charity fund to streamline deliveries.
Looking Ahead
Firefighting, rescue and search operations wrapped up on Friday morning, but the human and community impact endures. With 128 lives lost, ongoing support from the Chinese mainland will be crucial to help Hong Kong residents rebuild.
As the city moves from emergency response to recovery, this outpouring of aid highlights the power of coordinated action and solidarity across borders—offering a blueprint for rapid disaster relief in a connected world.
Reference(s):
Mainland rushes to aid Hong Kong in tackling residential complex fire
cgtn.com
