Hong Kong Inferno: 36 Dead, 200+ Missing in City's Worst Blaze in Decades
Image Source: Internet
A devastating fire tore through a crowded Hong Kong high-rise complex on Wednesday, claiming the lives of at least 36 people and leaving more than 200 residents unaccounted for. The inferno, which was still raging on Thursday morning, has left the city reeling and raised concerns about safety measures in the densely populated financial hub. The fire started on bamboo scaffolding on several apartment blocks at Wang Fuk Court, a complex of eight towers with nearly 2,000 flats in the northern district of Tai Po. The cause of the blaze is still unknown, but authorities have launched an investigation into the materials used on the buildings' exteriors, which may have contributed to the fire's rapid spread. Residents described a chaotic scene, with thick plumes of smoke billowing from the buildings and flames reaching high into the sky. Many elderly residents were trapped inside, and some were forced to evacuate via phone calls from neighbours. The fire has left hundreds of people without homes, with over 900 seeking refuge at temporary shelters. Chinese President Xi Jinping has expressed condolences to the victims and their families, and city leader John Lee has pledged to assist residents affected by the blaze. The fire service is working to bring the blaze under control, but residents are being cautious, with many fearing for their safety. The fire has sparked concerns about safety measures in Hong Kong, which has seen a significant reduction in deadly fires in recent decades. Authorities will probe the cause of the blaze and the materials used on the buildings' exteriors, with a view to preventing such tragedies in the future. As the city mourns the loss of life, residents are coming together to support those affected by the fire. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of fire safety and the need for vigilance in densely populated areas.
