A devastating fire has swept through multiple high-rise residential blocks in Hong Kong’s Tai Po district, claiming at least 44 lives and leaving hundreds missing. The blaze, which broke out on Wednesday, has been described as one of the deadliest fires in Hong Kong in decades. The fire started on the bamboo scaffolding surrounding the buildings, which were undergoing renovation work, and quickly spread to nearby towers.
Rescue efforts are ongoing, with firefighters battling to reach trapped residents amidst intense heat and smoke. The Hong Kong government has activated its Major Incident Control Centre, and emergency services are providing support to affected families. The cause of the fire is still under investigation, but officials suspect that flammable materials used in the renovation work may have contributed to the rapid spread of the flames.
The international community has expressed condolences, with Chinese President Xi Jinping urging authorities to make every effort to extinguish the fire and minimize casualties. The incident has raised concerns about fire safety regulations in Hong Kong’s densely populated residential areas.
