A devastating fire ripped through Wang Fuk Court, a large residential complex in the Tai Po District of Hong Kong, on the afternoon of November 26, 2025. The blaze engulfed multiple towers, killing many residents and leaving hundreds unaccounted for as rescue teams work to find survivors.
The fire is believed to have started on exterior bamboo scaffolding and combustible protective netting used during ongoing renovation work. Experts say these materials — along with foam boards covering windows — likely accelerated the fire, allowing it to spread rapidly across several buildings.
Residents described scenes of chaos and panic as thick smoke filled stairwells and corridors. Many fled in a hurry, with only the clothes on their backs, while others remained trapped when escape routes became blocked or filled with smoke.
Authorities have arrested three individuals connected to the renovation project on suspicion of gross negligence. An official investigation has been launched to determine whether use of non–fire-resistant materials and potential safety lapses contributed to the disaster.
As the city reels from one of its deadliest fires in decades, the tragedy has reignited urgent questions about building safety standards — especially the use of traditional bamboo scaffolding, the enforcement of fire-resistant construction practices, and inspection procedures for older high-density housing estates.
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