A devastating fire hits Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po District, Hong Kong, Firefighters and the local community rally to help affected residents.
A large fire broke out at the Wang Fuk Court apartment housing complex in Tai Po District, New Territories, Hong Kong, on November 26th, around 2:51 p.m. It spread quickly across all seven residential blocks, which were undergoing major renovation. By 2:51 p.m. on November 27th, firefighters had largely contained the blaze after an intense overnight effort. Authorities raised the alarm to No. 5, the city’s second-highest fire alert.
Community Rallies as Firefighters Contain Blaze
By the morning of November 27th, most blocks had been extinguished, although small hotspots remained in one or two buildings. The facades were blackened, smoke drifted as far as Tai Po Market MTR Station, and the air carried a strong burnt smell.
Residents and volunteers worked quickly to help evacuees. “I’ve lost my home,” said a 51-year-old woman wrapped in a volunteer’s blanket. She and her daughter were at work when the fire broke out, and upon returning, they found the flames already severe. They were unharmed but spent a sleepless night at a relative’s home.
Nearby, CCC Fung Leung Kit Memorial Secondary School suspended classes on November 27th and opened its campus to affected families. Donations poured in — blankets, clothing, hygiene items, bottled water, and food filled the courtyard. Students and volunteers sorted the supplies through the night. Local shops and restaurants also provided essentials, while members of the Tai Po Market Care Team delivered hot meals at midday. As firefighters passed by, residents called out: “Stay safe.”
Investigators Probe Flammable Renovation Materials
Police said several exterior renovation materials may have violated fire-safety standards. Investigators found protective nets, plastic sheeting, waterproof covers, and other construction items installed on the buildings.
They also discovered that elevator-lobby windows on every floor in blocks not yet damaged were sealed with polystyrene foam boards. The material is highly flammable and may have accelerated the fire.
Three men from the renovation contractor — two directors and an engineering consultant — remain in custody. Police said initial findings suggest serious negligence contributed to the accident.
Residents were told that the foam panels covered windows to prevent breakage during construction. Some panels also sealed air-conditioner openings. At the scene, reporters from HKCNA saw white foam boards still attached to windows in undamaged units. Burnt sandpaper pieces, some mixed with cement, were scattered nearby.
Several mainland Chinese companies announced donations. Tencent and Xiaomi each pledged HK$10 million, while sportswear company ANTA contributed HK$30 million in cash and supplies.
As of November 27th, Firefighters have largely extinguished the flames in four of the seven buildings, while the fire in the remaining three blocks is under control. As of now, the fire has claimed 55 lives and injured 72 people, including one firefighter who died and eight others who were injured.
Additional reporting by CNS, HKCNA.
If you liked this article, why not read: Mo Yan Brings His First Stage Play “Crocodile” to Hong Kong.
