This Sunday, the Hong Kong Police Force announced that 159 residents previously reported missing after a major fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po have been confirmed safe. The blaze tore through the residential complex on November 26, leaving communities in shock.
At a press briefing, Tsang Shuk-yin, officer in charge of the casualty inquiry unit, reported that as of 4 p.m. local time, officials have recorded 146 deaths and 79 injuries. The casualty inquiry team has ruled 100 cases untraceable due to incomplete information, non-residents of Wang Fuk Court or missing address details.
Search operations at four affected residential blocks wrapped up over the weekend. Structural engineers have deemed all buildings sound, and final inspections are expected to conclude by tonight.
Alice Mak, secretary for Home and Youth Affairs, said the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government will provide free accommodation until residents can rebuild. More than 1,500 people are now housed in transitional housing, youth hostels or hotels. The previously announced HK$50,000 living allowance per household remains a temporary measure, with further aid tailored to each family’s needs.
Community groups and digital platforms have mobilized donation drives and volunteer teams to support recovery efforts. As reconstruction gears up this week, this incident underscores the critical role of swift coordination between emergency services and local authorities in urban safety planning.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
