Multiple dead, hundreds missing in fire engulfing apartment buildings
Good morning, thank you for joining us as we continue our coverage of the devastating fire that gutted several apartment buildings in northern Hong Kong.
Here is a brief summary last update From the Hong Kong government.
Firefighters and emergency services are at the scene of a fire engulfing residential buildings in Wang Fuk Court.Credit: Bloomberg
Death toll: As of midnight, the death toll rose to 36. Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee told a media briefing that 29 people were hospitalized, seven of whom were in critical condition.
Firefighting efforts: “Currently, 11 fire hoses and 8 rolling steel ladder trucks are being used to spray water on the scene, and 26 search and rescue teams are responding to requests for assistance. In this operation, the Fire Department deployed more than 200 fire trucks and nearly 100 ambulances, totaling more than 1,200 firefighters and paramedics.”
Evacuations:”The Ministry of Internal Affairs opened eight temporary shelters for residents in need and arranged shuttle buses to transport them. As of 21.30 [1.30am AEDT]Approximately 900 people were benefiting from the shelters. “The Tai Po Internal Affairs Office will monitor the situation closely and open more shelters as needed.”
People watch as heavy smoke and flames rise from a massive fire at Wang Fuk Court in Hong Kong’s Tai Po district.Credit: AFP
Dock: “The Construction Department always imposes strict requirements on flame retardant properties to prevent the spread of fire in case of fire. Last month, the Ministry issued a circular to all registered construction professionals and contractors, repeatedly reminding them to review and ensure that protective nets and other materials used in the construction works for which they are responsible meet approved standards for flame-retardant performance.
“In response to this incident, the ministry… will take specific measures to require registered construction professionals and contractors to review fire retardant performance records or relevant test documentation for scaffolding protective nets and other components on ongoing projects.”
Building ownership: [The complex] It is a sold owner’s residence and construction was carried out by Hung Yip Construction Engineering Limited, a registered contractor hired by the owners’ company.
South China Morning Post He also reported that the renovation work at Wang Fuk Court was carried out by Prestige Construction & Engineering Co Limited.
