Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Chief Executive John Lee announced on Friday that an independent commission will deliver its findings on the devastating Tai Po residential fire within nine months.
The blaze, which broke out on November 26 in a Tai Po residential complex, has so far claimed 160 lives, with six residents still missing as of early December. Lee has appointed Justice David Lok and two other members to head the probe.
The commission will investigate the fire's root cause and examine whether recent renovation projects breached safety regulations. This move comes amid calls for greater accountability and improved building standards in the city's densely populated districts.
High-rise living is common across global metropolises, and Hong Kong's decision to launch a timely, transparent inquiry could offer lessons for urban centres worldwide. Residents and families are watching closely, hoping the report will bring clarity and stronger safeguards for future safety.
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Hong Kong residential fire report due within 9 months, John Lee says
cgtn.com
