Devastating Blaze in Hong Kong: How Did 44 Lives Get Lost?

A massive fire tore through multiple residential towers in Hong Kong’s Tai Po district, killing at least 44 people and leaving more than 300 unaccounted for. Officials say this is one of the deadliest fire incidents in the city in the past 17 years.

Seven high-rise towers were engulfed in flames, leaving hundreds injured. Rescue teams have managed to evacuate around 700 people so far. The affected towers housed a total of approximately 4,800 residents. Over 200 firefighters have been deployed to contain the blaze.

Police have arrested three individuals linked to a construction firm involved in ongoing renovation work at the complex. Investigators allege “gross negligence” on the part of the men—two company directors and a consultant. Their company’s name reportedly appeared on polystyrene boards found blocking windows in several apartments. These materials are highly flammable.

Authorities are also examining whether other construction materials, such as plastic sheets, canvas covers, and safety nets, failed to meet fire safety standards.

Fire Services Director Andy Yeung said, “Polystyrene boards were sealing off windows in some units, which is highly irregular. These materials ignite easily, causing flames to spread rapidly.” The discovery has been handed over to police for further investigation.

Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee stated that housing authorities will review whether the protective materials used during renovations met fire-resistant standards. “Anyone found responsible will face legal consequences,” he said.

Investigators are also examining whether bamboo scaffolding, commonly used in Hong Kong construction, contributed to the rapid spread of the fire.

The scale of the disaster surpasses even the infamous 1996 Garley Building fire, which killed 41 people.

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