The devastating fire that swept through the Tai Po housing estate in northern Hong Kong has claimed 44 lives, with dozens more residents hospitalised in serious condition. As dawn broke, officials confirmed that the blaze, which raged across seven high‑rise blocks, is now mostly under control compared to yesterday’s peak intensity, though firefighting teams remain on site to extinguish lingering hotspots.
Firefighting Progress
Authorities reported that flames have been contained in four of the seven towers, with 26 teams continuing operations in the remaining three. Rescue crews have reached as high as the 23rd floor, evacuating survivors and recovering victims. Officials said the situation is now stabilising, but the scale of destruction remains severe.
Renovation Works Under Scrutiny
The towers were undergoing renovation works at the time of the fire. While bamboo scaffolding, a traditional and widely used material in Hong Kong, was in place, investigators are focusing on reports that styrofoam panels had been installed to protect windows. Styrofoam’s flammability has raised concerns about compliance with Hong Kong’s strict fire safety regulations.
Arrests and Investigation
Police confirmed the arrest of three men on suspicion of using substandard materials, with possible manslaughter charges under review. The investigation will determine whether negligence in renovation practices contributed to the rapid spread of the fire.
Outlook
Though the blaze is now largely contained, the Tai Po disaster stands as one of Hong Kong’s deadliest residential fires in decades. With the death toll rising and questions mounting over renovation practices, the tragedy is expected to intensify scrutiny of building safety standards, regulatory enforcement, and accountability across the city.
