HONG KONG -- China's Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government announced on Friday a series of mourning events to express deep sorrow for the victims of the residential fire that broke out on Wednesday in Tai Po, as post-disaster relief, investigation and financial support efforts are underway.

A working group deployed by the Hong Kong and Macao Work Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee left for Hong Kong in the early hours of Thursday. Upon arrival, the working group joined Zhou Ji, director of the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the HKSAR, to extend sympathies to the injured and residents affected by the fire.

The Fire and Rescue Corps of Guangdong Province and the fire brigade of Shenzhen City provided eight survey drones equipped with thermal imaging capabilities and two drones capable of long-term power supply, which are believed to have facilitated on-site search and rescue operations in Wang Fuk Court, where the fire occurred.

MOURNING ARRANGEMENTS

The national flag and the HKSAR flag will be flown at half-mast at all government buildings and facilities across Hong Kong from Saturday to Monday, among other detailed arrangements.

During the three-day mourning period, principal HKSAR government officials will call off all non-essential public events. Meanwhile, all recreational and celebratory activities organized or funded by the HKSAR government will be either canceled or postponed depending on specific circumstances.

John Lee, chief executive of the HKSAR, will lead principal officials, non-official members of the Executive Council and civil servants in observing a three-minute silence at the HKSAR government headquarters at 8 a.m. on Saturday, paying tribute to the victims of the deadly blaze.

To enable the public to convey their condolences, the Home Affairs Department of the HKSAR government will set up condolence stations in all 18 districts of Hong Kong. People can sign condolence books at these stations from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily from Saturday to Monday.

Firefighting and rescue operations for the residential fire were basically wrapped up on Friday morning. Up to now, death toll from the fire has jumped to 128, the HKSAR government said Friday.

Post-disaster relief and investigation work are currently underway. The HKSAR government will provide a condolence payment of 200,000 Hong Kong dollars (25,693.40 U.S. dollars) to the family of each victim in the residential area fire, Alice Mak Mei-kuen, secretary for Home and Youth Affairs of the HKSAR government, said on Friday.

Additionally, a living allowance of 50,000 Hong Kong dollars per household will be distributed starting next week, with registration processed through the "one social worker per household" assistance mechanism.

The HKSAR government has also rolled out an emergency cash grant of 10,000 Hong Kong dollars to each affected household since Thursday evening to address their urgent needs.

Also on Friday, Paul Chan, financial secretary of the HKSAR government, convened a coordination meeting with financial regulators to enhance support for residents affected by the fire. He instructed the financial regulators to step up coordination and mobilise banks, insurance companies, Mandatory Provident Fund (MPF) trustees and other financial institutions to provide timely and effective assistance to the affected residents.

RESCUE CHALLENGES

Chris Tang Ping-keung, secretary for security of the HKSAR government, on Friday afternoon provided the latest update on the Tai Po fire.

According to Tang, during the fire, police received a total of 467 requests for assistance regarding missing persons, some of which were duplicates. Among those missing, 39 were confirmed deceased, 35 were confirmed injured and sent to hospital, 110 were safe, and about 200 remained unaccounted for. These 200 included 89 bodies that could not be definitively identified.

Tang explained that while preliminary testing showed the scaffolding nets and protective nets around the buildings met fire-retardant standards, the foam panels surrounding the windows were highly flammable. Based on initial information, it is believed that the fire first broke out at the external netting on the lower levels of Wang Cheong House, which then ignited the foam panels. The flames spread rapidly upwards, reaching multiple floors, and within a short time extended to six other buildings in Wang Fuk Court.

The fire ignited foam panels attached to windows, causing glass to shatter, which further intensified the blaze and quickly spread it indoors. In a short span, both interior and exterior areas were engulfed, leading to the disaster. Additionally, the extreme heat caused bamboo scaffolding and nets to catch fire, with burning bamboo poles breaking off and falling, igniting other floors. The official cause of the fire remains under further investigation, Tang said.

Andy Yeung Yan-kin, director of Fire Services of the HKSAR government, said that on Nov. 27, the Fire Services Department dispatched a specialized fire prevention team to inspect the fire alarm systems in the eight buildings of Wang Fuk Court. They discovered that the fire alarms were not functioning effectively. In response, enforcement action will soon be taken.

Tang noted that the firefighting operation faced immense challenges. The fire spread with extraordinary speed, while collapsing scaffolding from upper levels blocked emergency vehicle exits and severely hindered firefighters' entry into the buildings. At times, the temperature on site exceeded 500 degrees Celsius, and the cramped indoor space greatly increased the difficulty of the work.

FIRE SERVICES

A total of 391 fire engine sorties, 185 ambulance sorties and 2,311 fire and ambulance personnel were dispatched. Twelve firefighters were injured, and Ho Wai-ho, from Sha Tin Fire Station, made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty, said Andy Yeung.

Regarding online questions about why helicopters were not used, he stated that if helicopters dropped water bombs over the buildings, the water would not reach the fire site but only fall on the exterior of the buildings, which would not directly aid firefighting. Moreover, when helicopters approach buildings, they generate strong air currents that could cause the fire to spread faster and wider.

On questions about why taller ladder trucks were not used, he explained that ladder trucks require stabilizing outriggers on both sides, which must extend wider on the ground as the ladder height increases. A 100-meter ladder truck requires a 10-meter wide base, which cannot be accommodated on most roads in Hong Kong. The Fire Services Department currently uses 56-meter ladder trucks.

As for questions about why drones were not used to fight the fire, he said that drone firefighting is still in the exploratory trial stage. The amount of water drones can carry is relatively small, and given the situation of multiple units burning simultaneously, using drones to spray water would not be effective.

SPONTANEOUS SOLIDARITY

In the aftermath of the fire, all sectors of society have rallied to show profound care for the affected residents and frontline rescuers, with donations and various forms of assistance pouring in continuously.

Major enterprises and organizations have stepped up with generous contributions, including China Resources Group, ByteDance (Hong Kong) and numerous other companies that have donated substantial sums to aid the relief efforts.

Beyond financial support, practical assistance has also been rolled out: China Mobile Hong Kong is offering communication fee waivers, while Lalamove provides free logistics services for charitable organizations supporting the disaster zone.

Community groups such as the Hong Kong Federation of Fujian Associations and Federation of Hong Kong Beijing organization have not only raised significant funds but also dispatched volunteers with supplies to the scene to deliver timely help.

As Hong Kong residents stand in spontaneous solidarity, the total amount of donations keeps rising. This warmth and mutual support will undoubtedly help the survivors navigate through this painful ordeal.

BEIJING - Authorities, businesses and citizens of the Chinese mainland have rallied to pool resources to support the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) after a major residential complex fire broke out in the region on Wednesday.

Having closely followed the status of rescue operations, the Hong Kong and Macao Work Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee established a work team that arrived in Hong Kong on Thursday morning to assist with relief efforts.

Under the office's coordination, the neighboring Guangdong Province swiftly mobilized a series of rescue equipment, medical supplies and consumables at the request of the HKSAR government, and delivered them to Hong Kong in two batches on Thursday and Friday.

Guangdong's fire and rescue forces also provided support in search and rescue and logistics. Advanced equipment, such as illuminating drones, reconnaissance drones, robotic exoskeletons and fire protective boots, has already been provided at Hong Kong's request.

Under the guidance of the All-China Women's Federation, multiple institutions jointly contributed a 5-million-yuan fund (about $706,324) to support Hong Kong residents in emergency rescue, resettlement and post-disaster recovery.

The Red Cross Society of China has donated 2 million yuan to the Hong Kong Red Cross for emergency rescue and humanitarian assistance and pledged follow-up support as needed for disaster relief.

Support has also surged from the mainland business community. As of now, total donations from mainland companies and institutions across sectors, including technology, e-commerce and logistics, have exceeded 600 million Hong Kong dollars (about $77.12 million).

A steady stream of emergency supplies such as blankets, food and water, donated by mainland enterprises and individuals, is arriving at the shelters. Many mainland residents have also voluntarily transported supplies, organized fundraisers, and offered online psychological counseling.

In addition to establishing a charity fund of 20 million Hong Kong dollars for the relief work, China Merchants Group, a centrally-administered state-owned enterprise headquartered in Hong Kong, activated an emergency logistics platform to ensure donated goods reach the region efficiently.

Firefighting, rescue and search operations were completed on Friday morning after the fatal blaze broke out at Wang Fuk Court in Hong Kong's Tai Po on Wednesday afternoon. The tragedy has claimed 128 lives.

Hong Kong's deadliest blaze in decades, which has claimed 128 lives so far in a housing estate in Tai Po district, has been fully extinguished after a 43-hour battle. While 79 people have been injured, the fate of 200 people remain unknown. Among the dead, 89 bodies are yet to be identified.

In the latest development, officials announced additional relief of HK$200,000 for each victim's family and HK$50,000 per affected household. Separately, a government support fund has now received HK$500 million in public donations, in addition to an initial HK$300 million from the government.

To mourn the victims of the blaze, Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu and other senior officials will observe a moment of silence at the Government Headquarters at 8 am on Saturday.

A three-day mourning period will concurrently begin, with flags flying at half-mast at all government facilities, including those overseas, and the cancellation of all government-funded celebratory events. Officials will refrain from attending non-essential public events.

The torch relay and opening ceremony of the upcoming 12th National Games for Persons with Disabilities and the 9th National Special Olympic Games of People's Republic of China, scheduled to open on December 8, have been canceled. A simple closing ceremony will be held afterward.

The fire began at around 3 pm on Wednesday at the eight-tower Wang Fuk Court, which was under renovation at the time of the incident, and is home to about 2,000 households. The blaze was fully put out at 10:18 am on Friday.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation. The city's anti-corruption body Independent Commission Against Corruption arrested eight individuals related to the incident on Friday, including two directors of Will Power Architects Company, the renovation project's engineering consultant.

This brought the total number of arrests to 11. Two directors of the registered contractor responsible for the renovation works, Prestige Construction & Engineering Co, and an engineering consultant from the company had been arrested early on Thursday.

Briefing newspersons on Friday afternoon, Hong Kong Secretary for Security Chris Tang Ping-keung explained that the fire is believed to have originated near the lower-floor mesh netting of Wang Cheong House and rapidly spread because of the highly flammable styrofoam attached to the windows.

With firefighting operations now completed, the Buildings Department will conduct structural safety inspections, after which the police will take over to carry out detailed investigations and search operations. The entire process is expected to take three to four weeks.

Acting Commissioner of Police Andrew Kan Kai-yan said that they have arranged sufficient personnel and are prepared to commence work immediately. They anticipate significant challenges during the search due to persistently high temperatures exceeding 200 C in some areas, poor internal conditions and confined spaces.

"Each building will be unsealed immediately after its search is completed, allowing affected residents to return to their homes as soon as possible to assess their situations," Kan added.

A total of 391 fire engines and 2,311 firefighters and paramedics were deployed at the site. One firefighter was killed and 12 firefighters were injured during the response, with one still in the Intensive Care Unit, according to the Fire Services Department.

Addressing public criticism on not using high-tech equipment such as helicopters, trucks with taller aerial ladder or drones, Director of Fire Services Andy Yeung Yan-kin explained that the downwash from a helicopter would have created strong winds, potentially endangering ground operations.

Meanwhile, taller aerial ladder trucks require broader stabilization space, often unavailable on Hong Kong's narrow urban streets. As for drones, their current firefighting capacity remains limited, as the smaller hoses they carry cannot simultaneously combat fires across multiple units effectively, Yeung added.

Secretary for Security Tang expressed gratitude to the Fire Services Department for their around-the-clock firefighting and rescue efforts and acknowledged the timely support from the central government and Guangdong authorities. He also noted the help that has poured in from various sectors of society.

In a press briefing, Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs Alice Mak Mei-kuen announced financial relief for those affected: a HK$200,000 condolence payment for each victim's family and a HK$50,000 allowance for affected households, with payments to be made from next week. She also reported that 1,200 households have been registered for the HK$10,000 emergency fund, with 78 already paid.

Secretary for Education Christine Choi Yuk-lin announced that each Tai Po primary and secondary school will receive HK$100,000, and each kindergarten will get HK$50,000 to arrange psychological counseling and essential student supplies. The government will also hold five seminars this weekend to equip teachers and parents with skills to support traumatized children, urging all schools to monitor student well-being.

Zhou Ji, director of the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in Hong Kong SAR and Nong Rong, deputy director of the State Council's Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office, visited temporary shelters in Tung Cheong Street Community Hall and Tung Cheong Street Sports Centre on Friday morning.

They met with displaced residents and on-site staff to discuss relief efforts, thanking the staff and pledging the central government's full support in coordinating with mainland authorities.

In the wake of the tragedy, condolences and donations have continued to pour in. As of Friday, at least HK$1 billion had been received from both within and outside the city.

The Macao government also announced a donation of HK$30 million for relief and post disaster reconstruction efforts. Macao Chief Executive Sam Hou-fai also expressed his condolences to the victims and their families, appealing to Macao society to support the Hong Kong SAR through various means, in a demonstration of the profound friendship and brotherhood between the two regions.

HONG KONG -- Hong Kong's Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) said on Friday that a special task force has been set up to launch a full-scale investigation into suspected corruption tied to a major renovation project at fire-hit Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po.

The anti-graft body announced that it arrested eight individuals in sequence on the day.

The arrestees, aged between 40 and 63, are seven men and one woman. Among them are four individuals from the consulting firm of the grand renovation project of Wang Fuk Court, namely two directors and two project managers responsible for supervising the project. Three others are scaffolding subcontractors, including a couple who are the proprietors of a company, while the remaining arrestee is a middleman.

Search warrants were executed by ICAC officers at 13 premises on Friday, including the offices of the consulting firm and the subcontractors, as well as the residences of the arrestees. Relevant works documents and bank records were seized.

The investigation is ongoing and all arrestees are being detained by the ICAC for further enquiries.

Special task force set up to probe into suspected corruption linked to renovation project in Hong Kong's fire-hit residential area: ICAC

Emergency help desks and hotlines have been set up to support migrant domestic helpers affected by the Tai Po fire disaster in Hong Kong. Edwina A. Antonio, executive director of Migrant Women's Refuge, said they're doing everything they can to reach out to migrant workers adversely affected by the devastating blaze at Wang Fuk Court.

MACAO -- The Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) government has donated HK$30 million Hong Kong dollars ($3.85 million) through the Macao Foundation to the Hong Kong SAR to support rescue efforts and reconstruction following the severe fire, according to the government information bureau on Friday.

A No 5 alarm fire broke out at a residential complex in Tai Po on Wednesday afternoon.

Macao Chief Executive Sam Hou Fai conveyed the Macao SAR government's deep condolences to the victims and heartfelt sympathies to the injured, their families, and the affected residents. He also called on all sectors of Macao society to take action and provide assistance to Hong Kong through various means.

After the incident, the Macao Red Cross activated its emergency response mechanism and, on Thursday, donated HK$500,000 Hong Kong dollars ($64,232) to the Hong Kong Red Cross. The organization said it will continue to monitor developments and offer additional assistance as needed.

HONG KONG -- The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government will provide a condolence payment of HK$200,000 ($25,693.40) to the family of each victim in the residential area fire, Alice Mak Mei-kuen, secretary for Home and Youth Affairs of the HKSAR government, said on Friday.

Additionally, a living allowance of HK$50,000 per household will be distributed starting next week, with registration processed through the "one social worker per household" assistance mechanism.

The HKSAR government has also rolled out an emergency cash grant of HK$10,000 to each affected household since Thursday evening to address their urgent needs.

The All-China Federation of Trade Unions has raised 8 million yuan ($1.13 million) in urgent funding to support rescue and resettlement efforts after a major fire in Tai Po in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region that broke out on Wednesday.

The federation said the funds will help provide displaced residents with basic living supplies and support their temporary resettlement.

It added that it will continue to closely monitor rescue operations and take active measures to assist those affected by the fire.

The international community has expressed deep condolences and offered help over the deadly blaze in a residential compound in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, which has resulted in at least 128 casualties.

Members of the Mission For Migrant Workers, Bethune House Migrant Women's Refuge, the Asian Migrants' Coordinating Body, and the International Migrants Alliance are in the Kwong Fuk Estate Podium to provide medical aid, counseling and assistance to find temporary shelter to affected migrant workers.

They also have set up hotline numbers that migrant workers can call for help. People who want to offer donation and other forms of support can also call the hotline.

The devastating fire that engulfed seven out of eight apartment blocks at Wang Fuk Court in Hong Kong's Tai Po district has claimed 128 people's lives as of 3:30 pm on Nov 28.

Completed in 1983, the apartment complex consists of eight blocks for 1,984 households and over 4,000 residents.

The mission and Bethune House have estimated that with 2,000 households, there may be at least 200 migrant domestic workers affected by the fire, which started on Nov 26 afternoon.

The two largest non-Chinese ethnic groups in Hong Kong are Filipino and Indonesian, representing 2.7 percent and 1.9 percent of the population, respectively, according to the 2021 population census by the HKSAR Census and Statistics Department.

The Consulate General of the Philippines in Hong Kong said on Nov 28 that it has confirmed one Filipino was injured, while one is missing. A total of 24 Filipinos are safe. The consulate said it continues on-the-ground operations to help Filipinos affected by the fire.

The Consulate General of Indonesia in Hong Kong also said it will continue to monitor any updates on the situation and is coordinating closely with local authorities on documentation and providing support for Indonesian nationals, including migrant workers, who are affected by the fire.

A hotline and panic button have also been set up to assist Indonesian nationals who are affected, the consulate general said on Nov 27.

Leaders of various countries also expressed their condolences over the incident.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has offered his condolences in connection with the tragic consequences of the fire in Hong Kong, according to a news release by the Kremlin.

"My heart goes out to the people who have lost their lives and the people who are searching and concerned about loved ones," said Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese when answering questions during a news conference on Nov 27.

Harvey Rouse, head of the European Union Office to Hong Kong and Macao SARs, expressed condolences to the families of the victims and support to Hong Kong's firefighters, paramedics, and doctors.

Governments of over 30 countries, including their consulate generals in Hong Kong, also extended their condolences and sympathies to the victims and their families while expressing their wishes for a speedy recovery of those injured and for Hong Kong to overcome the difficult time.

International organizations in Hong Kong have joined to offer support to those in need. The International Social Service Hong Kong Branch, a non-profit organization headquartered in Geneva, said on Nov 27 that it is providing cross border emergency support, resources consolidation, counseling and hotel accommodation for individuals and families affected who happened to be on the Chinese mainland.

It has also set up a relief fund to households affected and sending ethnic minority outreach teams to address the needs of non-Chinese residents affected by the fire.

HONG KONG -- Hong Kong Police Force will conduct full evidence collection and investigation into the Wang Fuk Court fire in Tai Po, which is expected to take three to four weeks, Chris Tang Ping-keung, secretary for security of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government, told a press conference on Friday.

"It is believed that the fire first broke out in the lower-level perimeter nets of Wang Cheong House, igniting foam boards and spreading rapidly to other buildings. This caused the glass to shatter, the fire to intensify sharply and spread indoors, resulting in a disaster with large-scale simultaneous ignition. High temperatures burned the bamboo scaffolding, and falling burning bamboo pieces set fire to other scaffolding nets," said Tang.

According to the security chief, firefighting, rescue and search operations were completed at 10:18 am on Friday.

The fire has claimed 128 lives, with approximately 200 people still unaccounted for, Tang said, adding that it cannot be ruled out that more bodies may be found when the police enter the scene for investigation later.

A total of 391 fire engine sorties, 185 ambulance sorties and 2,311 fire and ambulance personnel were dispatched. Twelve firefighters were injured, and Ho Wai-ho, from Sha Tin Fire Station, made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty, said Andy Yeung Yan-kin, director of Fire Services of the HKSAR government.

HONG KONG -- Hong Kong's Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) on Friday arrested two directors of an engineering consulting firm responsible for overseeing the maintenance work of Wang Fuk Court, a residential complex engulfed by a major fire since Wednesday afternoon.

The ICAC set up a task force on Thursday to launch an investigation into suspected corruption related to the maintenance project. The anti-graft body on Friday apprehended the management of the aforementioned firm and conducted evidence collection operations.

A No 5 alarm fire broke out at the residential complex in Tai Po on Wednesday afternoon. Hong Kong Police Force arrested three people on Thursday, who are executives of a construction company, including two directors and one engineering consultant.

HONG KONG -- Firefighting, rescue and search operations were completed at 10:18 am on Friday, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government told a press conference on Friday.

As of now, the fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po has claimed 128 lives, and it cannot be ruled out that more bodies may be found when the police enter the scene for investigation later, Chris Tang Ping-keung, secretary for security of the HKSAR government, told a press conference.

Meanwhile, approximately 200 people remain unaccounted for, Tang said.

A total of 391 fire engine sorties, 185 ambulance sorties and 2,311 fire and ambulance personnel were dispatched. Twelve firefighters were injured, and Ho Wai-ho, from Sha Tin Fire Station, made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty, said Andy Yeung Yan-kin, director of Fire Services of the HKSAR government.

HONG KONG -- Orange flames licked at the high-rise windows of Wang Fuk Court, a residential complex engulfed by a major fire since Wednesday afternoon, as one team after another of firefighters, their gear heavy with water and soot, stumbled out of the smoke-shrouded estate in Tai Po just after midnight.

"No matter how complex the circumstances, rescue never stops," said John Lee, chief executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR). On-site fire commanders noted the extreme ferocity of the blaze had forced a rotation system: each team would withdraw for two days of rest after 24 consecutive hours on the frontline.

At an early-morning press conference on Friday, Lam Cheuk-ho, an ambulance officer with the Fire Services Department (FSD), fought back tears as he spoke of a fallen comrade, Ho Wai-ho, from Sha Tin Fire Station, who was found unconscious while tackling the blaze on Wednesday afternoon.

By 6 am on Friday, the No 5 alarm fire had claimed 94 lives, including one firefighter, 37-year-old Ho, who was due to marry his girlfriend of nearly a decade next month. Another 76 people had been injured, among them 11 firefighters treated for burns, heat exhaustion and foot injuries.

The FSD deployed over 200 fire engines, some 100 ambulances and more than 1,200 fire and ambulance personnel for the operation. Drones circled overhead through the night, monitoring the blaze in real time to feed critical data to ground command.

Outside Wang Fuk Court at 11 pm on Thursday, Xinhua reporters witnessed flames flare up again in the upper floors of one building, orange flames licking out of windows. Firefighters quickly readjusted their water cannons, focusing their firepower to douse the rekindled spots.

By 1 am on Friday, two firefighters just off shift leaned against lampposts, gasping for air. Their turnout gear was soaked and caked in soot. When approached for interviews, they waved weakly -- too exhausted to speak.

At 1:20 am, Chan Derek Armstrong, deputy director of fire services, addressed an overnight press conference in a hoarse voice: "Some areas have reignited; we're spraying water to cool hotspots."

Firefighters were conducting floor-by-floor, door-to-door searches, he added, while the FSD was still fielding 25 outstanding distress calls -- some from upper floors of two buildings, where fires still raged.

Armed with demolition tools and oxygen tanks, firefighters cautiously entered the extinguished units. By flashlight, they combed every corner. "We battle extreme heat and climb floor by floor, stepping carefully," Wong Ka-wing, another deputy director of fire services, told reporters.

On Thursday, the girlfriend of the deceased firefighter, Ho, posted a heartfelt message on social media, revealing her grief and longing for her boyfriend.

"My superhero has finished his mission and returned to Krypton. You're my pride!" she wrote, adding, "but I'm sorry, I need some time alone. I just can't accept this yet. I so badly want to hold your hand again."

As dawn broke over Tai Po, the search continued. Wong Ka-wing emphasized that no unit would be left unchecked, even as some distress calls went unanswered.

"We keep trying. We'll break down every unit door, search thoroughly for any possible survivors. We haven't given up, and we won't," he said, summing up the FSD's resolve.

HONG KONG -- The death toll in a major fire that broke out at a residential complex in Hong Kong had jumped to 128, and may rise further, the HKSAR government said on Friday.

The Hong Kong and Macao Work Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee has coordinated with Guangdong province to provide assistance and support for relief efforts following the Tai Po fire in Hong Kong, which has already killed dozens of residents and injured many others.

In response to the needs outlined by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government, Guangdong dispatched rescue gear and medical materials, which were handed over to Hong Kong authorities on Thursday and Friday, respectively, according to a statement released by the office on its official website on Friday.

Xu Qifang, the executive deputy director of the office, visited Hong Kong on Thursday to coordinate and support disaster relief operations.

Meanwhile, faculty and students of the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (Guangzhou) have so far donated one million yuan ($141,844) to aid and support the relief efforts. Lionel M. Ni, president of HKUST (GZ), contributed 100,000 yuan.

"During this difficult time, the entire faculty and student body of HKUST (GZ) wish to express our deepest condolences to the victims, and extend our sincere sympathies to the injured, the families of the deceased, and all affected residents of Hong Kong," said the university in a statement.

HKUST (GZ) would continue to monitor the progress of the relief efforts and is committed to providing all possible support to the Tai Po fire rescue operations, according to the statement.

The university's fundraising initiative remains ongoing, it added.

Death toll rises to 94 in Hong Kong residential building fire: fire department

John Lee Ka-chiu, chief executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, announced on Thursday a series of measures in response to the deadly Tai Po blaze, including the establishment of a HK$300 million ($38.6 million) relief fund for affected residents, handing out a cash subsidy of HK$10,000 to the displaced families, providing 1,800 apartments to accommodate the affected, and creating a road map for replacing bamboo scaffolding in the city.

In a media briefing on Thursday afternoon, Lee said that all government celebratory events would be canceled or postponed and officials would suspend attendance at public activities to focus on relief efforts. The government will arrange memorial activities, including flying flags at half-staff on government buildings, holding memorial services and setting up condolence books, with details to be announced later.

The fire broke out at 2:51 pm on Wednesday in the eight-building Wang Fuk Court estate, which was undergoing renovations and has nearly 2,000 units. Flames quickly spread across seven of the eight towers. After the blaze burned for more than 27 hours, Lee announced that it had been brought "under control".

The fire had left 75 people dead and 77 injured by 10 pm on Thursday, according to the Fire Services Department. Speaking at a news briefing earlier on Thursday, Lee said that 279 people were missing.

Police arrested two male directors of a registered contractor responsible for the maintenance works, Wang Yip Construction Co, and one male engineering consultant early Thursday on suspicion of manslaughter. They are currently detained for investigation.

Accompanied by several senior officials, Lee inspected the scene of the blaze on Thursday afternoon and received a briefing from Deputy Director of Fire Services Yeung Yan-kin.

Meeting with the media after the inspection, Lee said the authorities will immediately begin a citywide inspection of all residential estates that are under renovation to check the safety of the scaffolding and construction materials. He also announced that authorities will create a road map for replacing the city's bamboo scaffolding with metal scaffolding.

Of the 1,800 apartments secured for displaced residents, 1,000 are youth hostel and hotel rooms throughout the city, which will provide temporary housing for one to two weeks. The number of participating hotels is increasing.

A social worker will be assigned to provide dedicated support to each affected household.

A working group from the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council arrived in Hong Kong on Thursday morning to assist in Hong Kong's disaster relief efforts. The delegation is led by the office's deputy head, Nong Rong. Xu Qifang, the office's executive deputy director, also departed for Hong Kong on Thursday afternoon.

Zhou Ji, director of the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, and Nong visited the Tai Po Community Center and the Prince of Wales Hospital to offer sympathy to fire victims and meet with rescue members and relief personnel.

The Liaison Office pledged full support for the SAR government's ongoing rescue efforts, casualty care and investigation of the blaze, expressing confidence in Hong Kong's unity during this difficult time.

Lee said the SAR government has submitted a list of needed supplies to mainland authorities, including items such as drones, high-reach ladders and conveyor belts. He also expressed hope for prompt assistance from the mainland in areas such as medical support and laboratory testing materials.

Lee expressed gratitude for the support from the Chinese mainland, noting that the eight drones and two long-endurance drones provided by Shenzhen had offered effective assistance in the rescue efforts.

"We share in the collective grief and must stand strong together through this difficult time," Lee said. "Let us channel our sorrow into resilience, maintaining social stability and working toward recovery."

The Tai Po District Office opened a 10th temporary shelter on Thursday at the Hong Kong Children and Youth Services Jockey Club Tai Po Integrated Children & Youth Services Center, with more than 500 residents already staying at the other nine temporary shelters opened since Wednesday.

The Independent Commission Against Corruption established a special task force on Thursday, and has launched a full investigation into the incident.

A total of eight Legislative Council election forums scheduled from Thursday to Sunday will be suspended. Lee said the government will "comprehensively assess the situation after completing the first phase of coordination before making any decisions regarding election arrangements".

Local and mainland businesses have pledged donations for the Tai Po fire relief efforts. Major contributions include an initial HK$100 million in emergency aid from the Hong Kong Jockey Club, HK$80 million from the Li Ka Shing Foundation and HK$50 million from The Community Chest of Hong Kong.

Local residents also volunteered to help at the site and provide supplies. Among them was a 70-year-old whose surname is Tso and who has lived in the community for four decades. "I just want to help as much as I can," said Tso.

A male survivor was rescued from the 16th-floor staircase of Wang Tao House, one of the seven fire-affected blocks of Wang Fuk Court, at 6:45 pm on Thursday.

The devastating fire that swept through the Wang Fuk Court residential complex in Tai Po, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, on Wednesday, causing heavy casualties, marks one of the most tragic incidents in the SAR's recent history. The catastrophe has highlighted the urgent need for a comprehensive review of safety protocols in high-density urban environments like Hong Kong.

President Xi Jinping immediately extended his condolences to the families of the victims and expressed his sympathy to those affected by the disaster on Wednesday. He urged the Hong Kong and Macao Work Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the Hong Kong SAR to support the SAR government in making every effort to put out the fire, carry out search and rescue operations, treat the injured, and provide post-disaster support.

Xi also demanded that relevant departments and localities provide necessary assistance to the SAR government to strive to minimize the casualties and losses.

This underscores the deep concern of the central government for the well-being of Hong Kong people, and is a reminder that the central authorities are always ready to stand behind the SAR and offer a helping hand whenever it is in need.

The SAR government, led by Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu, has fully mobilized resources to extinguish the fire, carry out rescue operations, treat the injured, and provide assistance and emotional support to families. A full investigation is also being carried out. The arrest of three individuals from a construction company in connection with the fire signals a commitment to accountability.

The tragedy should serve as a catalyst for reevaluating building safety standards and construction practices, particularly the use of bamboo scaffolding, which is still a common practice in Hong Kong, as this facilitated the rapid spread of the fire. There have been at least three fires involving bamboo scaffolding in Hong Kong this year, according to the SAR's Association for the Rights of Industrial Accident Victims. The government's earlier decision to phase out bamboo scaffolding in public projects is a step in the right direction, but this policy needs to be accelerated and expanded to include all construction projects in the city.

Furthermore, the incident raises questions about the fire resistance of materials used in building exteriors. It is suspected that some of the materials on the exterior walls of the high-rise buildings did not meet current fire resistance standards, enabling the fire to spread unusually fast. This calls for an urgent review and, if necessary, a tightening and enforcing of building codes to ensure that all major materials used in construction are noncombustible and can withstand high temperatures.

Incorporating fire safety into new developments and restoration work is also essential. This includes the installation of sprinkler systems, and the implementation of smoke detection technologies in both new and existing structures. Urban planners should also consider fire safety in the design of public spaces, ensuring that there are adequate escape routes, clear signage and accessible fire hydrants.

Creating safe urban spaces requires a proactive and collaborative approach in which all stakeholders are committed to prioritizing safety and well-being. By being prepared, cities can better protect their communities from the devastating impacts of fires and other emergencies.

So in addition to these structural and regulatory considerations, there is a need for enhanced public awareness and preparedness. Community engagement initiatives can help build a culture of safety and vigilance, and fire drills and safety education can empower residents to respond more effectively to such emergencies.

As Hong Kong mourns the loss of life and grapples with the aftermath of this disaster, it is crucial to channel collective grief into action. By strengthening safety regulations, updating construction practices, and enhancing emergency preparedness, the city can honor the memory of those who lost their lives and build a safer future for all its residents.

HONG KONG -- Firefighters had rescued 55 people in the major fire in the residential complex Wang Fuk Court in Hong Kong, John Lee, chief executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, said at a press briefing on Thursday.

He added that cash grants will be given to households affected by the fire in the residential complex on Thursday evening.

The Hong Kong Alumni Association of Guangzhou-based Sun Yat-sen University has established a dedicated WeChat group for Tai Po Fire Emergency Support so its alumni in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region can assist fire victims.

In a Wednesday night post on X, formerly known as Twitter, the alumni association announced the establishment of the group chat, calling on its more than 20,000 SYSU alumni in Hong Kong to provide practical support, including relief supplies, temporary accommodation, and medical consultation.

The group chat connects its members to assistance resources with the HKSAR government, ensures the smooth transmission of emergency information, and cooperates with the government's rescue work arrangements, the post said.

"We will remain engaged with the progress of the SAR government's rescue operations and will promptly disseminate information on official relief channels and alumni-led support initiatives," the alumni association said.

The Red Cross Society of China announced on Thursday a donation of 2 million yuan ($276,000) for emergency rescue and humanitarian assistance in response to the deadly fire that engulfed a residential complex in Hong Kong's Tai Po district.

The organization said it will provide further support based on disaster relief needs.

The blaze broke out on Wednesday evening and has killed at least 55 people as of Thursday afternoon.

HONG KONG -- The death toll in a major fire that tore through a residential area in Hong Kong from Wednesday afternoon had risen to 65, said the Fire Services Department (FSD) on Thursday.

The FSD has dispatched a total of 304 fire engines and rescue vehicles, and used drones to monitor heat levels to prevent rekindling. The department has extinguished flames in four of the affected buildings and brought fire under control in the other three.

The residential area Wang Fuk Court consists of eight buildings, all of which were encased by green mesh and scaffolding due to a major renovation project. Three men responsible for the renovations were arrested earlier for suspected manslaughter, as the police investigation pointed to flammable materials covering the buildings as a possible cause for the rapid spread of fire.

The five-alarm fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po, Hong Kong, has been brought under control after a grueling 10-hour battle. The buildings' exterior is blackened, with thick smoke still billowing skyward as firefighters tackle sporadic outbreaks on higher floors. The death toll rose to 44 as of Thursday morning.

HONG KONG -- Three men have been arrested for suspected manslaughter in a fire that broke out in Wang Fuk Court, a residential area in Tai Po of Hong Kong, on Wednesday afternoon, the Hong Kong Police Force said at a press briefing on Thursday.

The fire had left 55 people dead by Thursday afternoon, the police said.

Police investigation suggested that the protective nets, waterproof canvas and plastic cloth covering the buildings might fall short of fireproof standards. The police also found that polyurethane foam was used to seal windows of elevator lobbies in an unaffected building in the residential area, and pointed to the flammable material as a possible cause for the rapid spread of fire.

The three men were executives of a construction company responsible for installing these materials for the renovation of the buildings. The suspects aged between 52 and 68 include two company directors and a project consultant whose gross negligence was believed to have caused heavy casualties.

President Xi Jinping expressed condolences on Wednesday for the victims of a major fire at a residential area in the Tai Po area of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and for the firefighter who died in the line of duty.

Xi extended his sympathies to the families of the victims and those affected by the disaster, and called for all-out efforts to put out the blaze and minimize the casualties and losses.

The huge blaze engulfed several residential buildings in a housing estate in Tai Po, New Territories, on Wednesday afternoon, resulting in significant casualties.

Following the incident, Xi, who is also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, promptly learned of the information about the fire rescue efforts and the casualties.

He urged the Hong Kong and Macao Work Office of the CPC Central Committee and the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the Hong Kong SAR to support the SAR government in making every effort to put out the fire, carry out search and rescue operations, treat the injured, and provide post-disaster support.

He also demanded that relevant departments and localities provide necessary assistance to the SAR government to strive to minimize the casualties and losses.

The SAR government activated its emergency rescue mechanism, and the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the Hong Kong SAR has established an emergency task force to maintain close communication with the SAR government and fully support the rescue efforts.

Rescue operations were underway.

The death toll continued to rise after the blaze broke out, with at least 13 dead and many others injured. Many residents were reported to have been trapped in their homes, with seven out of the total eight buildings on the residential estate on fire and a plume of smoke engulfing the sky and visible from far away. The fire continued to escalate into the night, with burning objects falling and explosions at the scene.

The blaze, which started at around 2:51 pm, was upgraded to a No 4 alarm at 3:34 pm, and it was further upgraded to a No 5 alarm, the second highest, at 6:22 pm.

Wang Fuk Court, currently under renovation, is a housing complex of eight buildings and nearly 2,000 residential units.

Nine people were found dead at the scene and four others were later confirmed dead after being sent to hospitals. Among the dead was 37-year-old firefighter Ho Wai-ho. Six people were still in serious condition. The injured were sent to nearby hospitals for further treatment.

Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu has extended his deepest condolences regarding the firefighter who lost his life while performing his duties and to the families of the deceased.

Lee said in a Facebook post that he had immediately activated an emergency monitoring and support center, received reports from the Security Bureau and the Fire Services Department, and instructed the emergency and fire departments to make every effort in firefighting and rescue work.

The Fire Services Department of the HKSAR government sent 767 personnel to the scene.

The department said seven 32-story buildings, which all have bamboo scaffolding erected for renovation, were on fire. The conditions were extremely hazardous, with debris continuously falling and the number of distress calls increasing, which necessitated the escalation of the fire to a No 5 alarm, the department told media in an on-site briefing.

The Hong Kong government has opened five temporary shelters to accommodate affected residents, and a secondary school has also been opened to house evacuated residents. Several hundred people gathered at the temporary shelters, where bread, water and biscuits were being distributed.

Contact the writers at caodesheng@chinadaily.com.cn

HONG KONG -- Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) John Lee said in the small hours on Thursday that a fire at Wang Fuk Court, a residential area in Tai Po of Hong Kong, has been gradually brought under control after firefighters' tireless efforts.

Speaking at a press briefing, Lee said that the death toll from the fire has risen to 36, with 279 people still missing. Twenty-nine remained hospitalized, including seven in critical condition. Lee said he was deeply saddened by the situation.

Lee said that from the outside, three buildings now showed no visible flames, while four others displayed only sporadic fire spots.

Lee stressed that the HKSAR government will mobilize all resources to fully support the rescue operations. He has instructed departments and units to carry out comprehensive work, including extinguishing the fire, rescuing trapped residents, treating the injured, providing assistance and emotional support to families, and conducting a full investigation into the accident.

The Fire Services Department of the HKSAR government was notified of the accident at around 2:51 pm local time on Wednesday. Due to the fierce blaze, the department raised the alert to No 5 alarm fire at 6:22 pm local time. Rescue operations were still ongoing.

Wang Fuk Court consists of eight residential buildings, and the fire once spread from one building to seven others.

The Hong Kong Hospital Authority has activated its Major Incident Control Center.

President Xi Jinping expressed condolences on Wednesday for the victims of a major fire at a residential area in the Tai Po area of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and for the firefighter who died in the line of duty.

Xi extended his sympathies to the families of the victims and those affected by the disaster, and called for all-out efforts to put out the blaze and minimize the casualties and losses.

The huge blaze engulfed several residential buildings in a housing estate in Tai Po, New Territories, on Wednesday afternoon, resulting in significant casualties.

Following the incident, Xi, who is also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, promptly learned of the information about the fire rescue efforts and the casualties.

He urged the Hong Kong and Macao Work Office of the CPC Central Committee and the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the Hong Kong SAR to support the SAR government in making every effort to put out the fire, carry out search and rescue operations, treat the injured, and provide post-disaster support.

He also demanded that relevant departments and localities provide necessary assistance to the SAR government to strive to minimize the casualties and losses.

The SAR government activated its emergency rescue mechanism, and the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the Hong Kong SAR has established an emergency task force to maintain close communication with the SAR government and fully support the rescue efforts.

Rescue operations were underway.

The death toll continued to rise after the blaze broke out, with at least 36 killed and many others injured. Many residents were reported to have been trapped in their homes, with seven out of the total eight buildings on the residential estate on fire and a plume of smoke engulfing the sky and visible from far away. The fire continued to escalate into the night, with burning objects falling and explosions at the scene.

The blaze, which started at around 2:51 pm, was upgraded to a No 4 alarm at 3:34 pm, and it was further upgraded to a No 5 alarm, the second highest, at 6:22 pm.

Wang Fuk Court, currently under renovation, is a housing complex of eight buildings and nearly 2,000 residential units.

Nine people were found dead at the scene and four others were later confirmed dead after being sent to hospitals. Among the dead was 37-year-old firefighter Ho Wai-ho. Six people were still in serious condition. The injured were sent to nearby hospitals for further treatment.

Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu has extended his deepest condolences to the firefighter who lost his life while performing his duties and to the families of the deceased.

Lee said in a Facebook post that he had immediately activated an emergency monitoring and support center, received reports from the Security Bureau and the Fire Services Department, and instructed the emergency and fire departments to make every effort in firefighting and rescue work.

The Fire Services Department of the HKSAR government sent 767 personnel to the scene.

The department said seven 32-story buildings, which all have bamboo scaffolding erected for renovation, were on fire. The conditions were extremely hazardous, with debris continuously falling and the number of distress calls increasing, which necessitated the escalation of the fire to a No 5 alarm, the department told media in an on-site briefing.

The Hong Kong government has opened five temporary shelters to accommodate affected residents, and a secondary school has also been opened to house evacuated residents. Several hundred people gathered at the temporary shelters, where bread, water and biscuits were being distributed.

Contact the writers at caodesheng@chinadaily.com.cn