Hong Kong high-rise fire update: 128 confirmed dead, fire warning systems 'malfunctioning' | DW News

Key Concepts

• Hong Kong high-rise inferno
• Death toll
• Survivor search
• Victim identification
• Fire alarm malfunction
• Construction safety standards
• Manslaughter arrests
• Unsafe materials (styrofoam boards)
• Bamboo scaffolding and green mesh
• Emergency calls
• Property owner corporation disputes
• Contractor tendering process
• Government inspection
• Corruption
• Community support and solidarity

Hong Kong High-Rise Inferno: A Catastrophic Blaze

Overview of the Tragedy

The transcript details the devastating aftermath of a fire in a high-rise apartment complex in Hong Kong, which resulted in a tragic death toll of 128. The inferno, which burned for over 40 hours before being declared largely extinguished, engulfed seven buildings in minutes. The rapid spread of flames was attributed to materials used on bamboo scaffolding and green mesh draped over blocks undergoing maintenance.

Ongoing Rescue and Identification Efforts

Crews are actively engaged in a final search of the charred towers, with the primary hope of finding any survivors, though the chances are described as "very little" given the duration of the fire and the end of firefighting operations. The focus is now shifting towards apartments that made more than two dozen emergency calls during the blaze, which crews were unable to reach.

A harrowing task faces the families of the victims: identifying their loved ones. Authorities have set up temporary centers where families are escorted to view photos taken by firefighters. The process is emotionally taxing, with individuals recognizing potential images of their deceased relatives, some of whom remain missing. As of the report, 16 bodies were still inside the building, and the death toll was not ruled out from increasing.

Investigation into Causes and Negligence

The investigation into the fire's cause and spread is underway, with 1,000 police officers mobilized for evidence collection and to determine if negligence was involved. Initial findings from the fire services and eyewitness reports indicate that fire alarms were not functioning effectively.

Regarding the materials used, the initial investigation found that some netting material around the scaffolding seemed compliant with standards. However, styrofoam boards stuck to windows in many buildings are suspected of contributing to the rapid spread of the fire.

Arrests and Concerns Over Safety Standards

The catastrophic blaze has ignited anger and concern over construction safety standards in Hong Kong. In response, police have arrested three construction company executives on suspicion of manslaughter. They are accused of using unsafe materials that may have exacerbated the fire.

Systemic Failures and Potential Corruption

Journalist Selena Chang highlighted that the incident points to multiple levels of serious failures. These include:

• Disputes within the property owner corporation since the previous year, raising questions about the contractor tendering process.
• A perceived lack of sufficient government inspection to identify problems with renovation materials or processes.

The government has pledged to investigate potential corruption, which is described as a common issue in Hong Kong's renovation projects, involving disagreements, price-fixing, and corrupt building committees.

Community Response and Solidarity

Despite the tragedy, the transcript emphasizes the strong sense of solidarity and willingness to help among the people of Hong Kong. Near the fire scene, thousands congregated in community halls and public plazas to donate supplies for those who lost their homes. This spirit of mutual support is noted as a recurring theme during times of crisis in the city, described as "motivating" and "encouraging."