A catastrophic fire tore through the high-rise residential complex of Wang Fuk Court in Hong Kong’s Tai Po district on Wednesday, with at least 13 people dead and dozens injured. The blaze ripped through several towers in one of the city’s largest housing estates with nearly 4,800 residents in what was described as the worst fire in decades.
When & Where the Fire Happened
The fire started in the mid-afternoon, quickly spreading through seven out of eight towers in the Wang Fuk Court estate. The emergency services quickly responded, but the extreme heat, debris and structural hazards hampered firefighting and rescue efforts.
Wang Fuk Court is a substantial housing estate consisting of eight towers with nearly 2,000 flats. Records indicate that the complex houses approximately 4,800 people.
Wang Fuk Court Fire: Damage & Casualties
Authorities confirmed that nine people were found dead at the scene, while four others died later at hospitals including a 37-year-old firefighter in the line of duty. Another 23 persons were injured with six in critical condition. The Level 5 alarm with the highest level of severity was issued, which is the same as that for the 1996 Kowloon fire that killed 41 people.
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What is Cause of the Fire
According to investigations, the fire seemed to originate on the scaffolding made of bamboos, which was used for routine maintenance. The wind and debris helped the fire spread through construction netting and nearby structures. While officials have not confirmed the exact ignition source, they warned of scaffolding dangers in densely populated areas.
Wang Fuk Court Fire: Rescue & Relief Efforts
Hundreds of firefighters, paramedics, and police personnel were deployed, supported by 128 fire trucks and 57 ambulances. About 700 residents were evacuated to temporary shelters. Road closures in the vicinity helped facilitate emergency operations. Authorities have set up a casualty hotline to track missing residents.
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Wang Fuk Court Fire: Residents Experiences
The witnesses described chaotic scenes, especially for elderly residents who had to be helped to get out. Many realized the fire too late because windows were closed due to maintenance in progress. Some residents prioritized safety over property, underlining the human cost of such urban tragedies.
Safety Concerns & Policy Questions
The fire has re-ignited debate about the widespread use of bamboo scaffolding on Hong Kong’s construction sites. Authorities had planned to phase out its use because of the fire risk, but a number of incidents this year have made clear the need for stronger enforcement of safety and revised building codes.
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Disclaimer: All casualty and damage reports are based on official statements and media sources; investigations are ongoing.
