Hong Kong: As investigators begin dissecting the tragic tower blaze that devastated a Tai Po housing complex, attention is turning to several structural and safety issues that may have accelerated the fire’s ferocious spread. While the Hong Kong Police have launched a dedicated task force to determine the exact cause, early observations from firefighters on the ground suggest that multiple hazardous elements may have contributed to the rapid escalation.
According to Fire Services Director Andy Yeung, responders made a troubling discovery while battling the flames: several apartment windows had been blocked by polystyrene boards. Yeung described the material as “highly flammable,” noting that once ignited, it can burn swiftly and intensely, giving residents little time to react. “These polystyrene boards are extremely inflammable and the fire spread very rapidly,” he said, adding that the placement of such materials on residential windows was “unusual” and has been formally referred to police for deeper investigation.
In addition to the window obstruction, authorities are now scrutinizing the protective coverings draped over the buildings as part of an ongoing refurbishment project. Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee confirmed that housing authorities will examine whether the construction mesh and other exterior shielding met fire-safety standards. He vowed full accountability if negligence or substandard materials played a role. “We will hold those accountable in accordance with the laws and regulations,” Lee emphasized.
Another longstanding concern resurfacing in the wake of this disaster is the use of bamboo scaffolding a traditional construction technique widely employed across Hong Kong. While valued for its flexibility and cultural significance, bamboo is prone to combustion and has been cited in previous fire incidents for enabling flames to climb quickly along building exteriors. Investigators are now assessing whether the scaffolding encasing the towers acted as a conduit, allowing the blaze to shoot upward and engulf multiple blocks within minutes.
As the probe unfolds, residents and experts alike are calling for transparency and a thorough review of construction practices, renovation oversight, and fire-safety enforcement. The findings are expected to play a pivotal role in reshaping future building standards in one of the world’s most densely built cities.