Hong Kong Leader Orders Investigation into Tragic Inferno that Took 151
Hong Kong's chief executive, John Lee, has mandated the establishment of an autonomous task force to examine the reasons of a devastating fire that killed at least 151 people.
A Blaze of Unprecedented Scale
On Wednesday last week, the majority of the tower blocks at the estate—that was in the midst of extensive renovations—were consumed by a blaze. Investigators have since found that safety scaffolding mesh surrounding the buildings failed to meet flame retardant standards.
At least 13 people have been arrested for suspected manslaughter, among them the senior figures of a building firm.
"Yes, it is a tragedy, it is a big fire. Changes are required. Failures have been detected in multiple areas. Hence we must act seriously to ensure that all these deficiencies are plucked," remarked Mr. Lee.
Investigation and Aftermath
The inferno—advancing with speed both vertically and from building to building—was not completely extinguished by the end of the week, around 40 hours after it began, and required more than 2,000 fire service personnel to bring under control.
That very day, authorities started accessing the buildings to gather evidence. Officials state the inquiry could take several weeks.
Shortcomings Uncovered
A number of occupants have reported they failed to hear a smoke detector when the fire started. Local firefighters discovered that detection devices in each building were not working effectively.
Hong Kong's buildings department has put on hold works on three dozen private developments.
Demands for Probe and Detentions
Additionally, authorities are said to have arrested a 24-year-old man on allegations of subversion on the weekend. He was among a collective petitioning for an independent inquiry into the fire. An internet-based appeal gathered more than 10,000 supporters in under 24 hours before its information was removed.
Two other people, including a past council member, were also questioned by police, as reported by press accounts.
International Reaction
The human rights organization and Another watchdog have both condemned the alleged detentions.
"This is the occasion for the local government to openly examine the reasons of the devastating fire...as opposed to muzzling those who pose valid inquiries," stated the organization.
Background and Resident Profile
Wang Fuk Court was built in 1983 and had offered 1,984 apartments for some 4,600 occupants, according to a population count.
Nearly 40% of its residents are thought to be over 65 years old. A number have been occupants of the government-supported development since it was built.
The city's second-deadliest fire on file claimed 176 individuals in 1948 and was caused by a blast on the lower level at a commercial building. The deadliest was at Happy Valley Racecourse in 1918, when more than 600 attendees died.
