Hong Kong's Worst Modern Disaster Unfolds
More than 30 hours after flames first erupted at Wang Fuk Court in Hong Kong's Tai Po district, the devastating blaze continues to challenge firefighters. Thick, choking smoke filled the air as debris fell periodically from the blackened shells of seven out of eight tower blocks that comprise the residential complex.
Survivors' Harrowing Accounts
The Lam family, who had lived in the building for three generations over 40 years, lost everything. Ms Lam revealed a critical safety failure: "The alarm was all off because of the renovation of the outside. So there is no alarm to let all the people know. Many old people, elderly people, they were all having an afternoon sleep. So nobody knew." Her father narrowly escaped, but many neighbours remain unaccounted for.
Another survivor expressed overwhelming emotions: "I feel sadness and hopeless and don't know what [I'm] going to do. I don't know. Cannot describe. So sad." The community gathered in stunned silence, with occasional cries from relatives receiving dreaded news about their loved ones.
Community Response and Growing Anger
Over 4,500 residents from the complex require emergency shelter. While the government has offered temporary accommodation, many feel unsupported. One man chose to sleep on the floor near his destroyed home, stating he doesn't feel supported by authorities.
Volunteers distributed essential supplies including food, water, blankets and clothing to displaced residents. Meanwhile, anger focuses on the construction company conducting renovations. Three construction bosses have been arrested amid allegations that netted mesh, bamboo scaffolding and polystyrene materials accelerated the fire's spread.
One local woman captured the community's mood: "It is very serious and people are starting to feel furious about the construction company and the construction materials. There are so many layers of anger among the people. People feel that every party should take responsibility." Many residents wore masks to avoid being identified when speaking about the tragedy.
This fire represents the worst disaster in Hong Kong's modern history, particularly affecting elderly residents who will struggle to rebuild their lives. As the community mourns, difficult questions about responsibility and safety regulations remain unanswered.
