Hong Kong authorities confirmed Friday the completion of firefighting operations at Wang Fuk Court, where a catastrophic blaze claimed 94 lives this week. The residential complex, undergoing renovations since 2023, became engulfed in flames Wednesday afternoon when fire spread rapidly through scaffolding and construction materials.
Over 100 ambulances responded to the disaster as rescue teams worked through the night to evacuate residents. Three renovation contractors were arrested Thursday on suspicion of manslaughter, while the Independent Commission Against Corruption opened a probe into potential irregularities in the HK$2.8 billion ($360 million) renovation project.
Chief Executive John Lee announced immediate city-wide safety inspections of all construction sites and pledged HK$10,000 ($1,286) in emergency relief per affected household. Nine temporary shelters have been established for displaced residents, with plans to provide 1,800 transitional housing units through public-private partnerships.
The 1983-built public housing estate's tragic incident has reignited debates about urban renewal priorities and construction safety standards. As search teams conclude their final sweeps of the charred towers, officials vow to implement 'lasting reforms' in building maintenance protocols.
