 "At least 14 killed, dozens trapped after fire engulfs high-rise buildings in Hong Kong")
A massive fire tore through several high-rise residential buildings in Hong Kong’s northern Tai Po district on Wednesday, killing at least 14 people and injuring dozens as authorities struggled to contain the blaze, according to a Reuters report.
Firefighters battled towering flames into the night as thick black smoke poured from the 32-storey towers, which were wrapped in bamboo scaffolding — being phased out by the government since March for safety reasons—and green construction mesh. The cause of the fire remains unknown.
Officials said reaching the upper floors of the towers was extremely difficult due to intense heat, and efforts to control the fire became more challenging after nightfall.
The fire broke out at the Wang Fuk Court housing complex, which includes eight blocks and around 2,000 residential units. The Fire Services Department has not yet determined how many residents may still be trapped inside.
According to Sky News, about 700 residents have been evacuated to temporary shelters, though officials warned that others remain trapped in the blaze at the Wang Fuk Court housing complex, added the report.
The fatalities included one firefighter, Sky News reported, citing officials.
Three people are in critical condition with burn injuries, while additional residents and firefighters sustained injuries while trying to tackle the flames, added the report.
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View AllVideo from the scene showed flames consuming at least five closely situated buildings. Fire officials said they do not yet have an estimate of how many people may still be inside.
The fire, which broke out at 2:51 pm local time, spread along bamboo scaffolding erected around the exterior of the 31-storey towers, where renovation work was reportedly underway, reported Sky News.
Firefighters were seen directing water at the intense flames from ladders, while thick grey smoke billowed from the buildings. Flames and smoke continued to pour from windows as night fell.
Wang Fuk Court comprises eight blocks housing nearly 2,000 apartments and is part of the government’s subsidised home ownership scheme. The complex has been occupied since 1983, according to its website.
Tai Po is located in northern Hong Kong, near the border with the mainland Chinese city of Shenzhen. Bamboo scaffolding is commonly used in Hong Kong for construction and renovation projects, though the government said earlier this year it would begin phasing it out in public projects over safety concerns.
With inputs from agencies
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