Hong Kong: Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee announced that nearly 500 displaced residents are now relying on nine emergency shelters as the city continues battling the remnants of the devastating Wang Fuk Court inferno. Fire crews are still working to extinguish the last visible flames, even as authorities shift toward relief, medical aid, and recovery operations.
Speaking at a news conference on Thursday evening, Lee said the government has deployed significant medical resources to support evacuees. Around 250 doctors and 250 additional healthcare professionals are being stationed at temporary medical centers across the shelters to treat injuries, monitor health conditions, and assist traumatized families. He emphasized the administration’s commitment to supporting those who lost loved ones.
“We are experiencing a collective pain,” Lee said gravely. “At this difficult moment, we must stand strong together and walk through this hardship side by side.”
According to Lee, firefighting teams have brought the blazes at all seven residential blocks in Wang Fuk Court “basically under control.” Despite this, live footage continued to show isolated flames flickering through upper-level apartment windows, underscoring the immense challenge that responders have faced since the fire erupted on Wednesday afternoon.
Lee confirmed that the government is launching an immediate citywide inspection of bamboo scaffolding following concerns raised by the rapid spread of the fire. Bamboo structures, which are widely used in Hong Kong’s construction industry, came under scrutiny after experts warned that the material can accelerate vertical flame movement.
“The Development Bureau and Construction Bureau are already discussing a shift toward metal scaffolding,” Lee said, suggesting a long-term industry overhaul may follow once investigations conclude.
In a major financial commitment, the Hong Kong government will set up a HK$300 million (US$38.5 million) assistance fund to support victims of the Wang Fuk Court disaster. Lee outlined additional citywide measures as Hong Kong enters a period of mourning, including:
• The cancellation of all scheduled celebratory events
• A pause on government officials attending non-essential public functions
• A call for public donations to support affected families
Lee also expressed gratitude to Chinese President Xi Jinping for his message of “concern” following the tragedy.
To provide immediate financial relief, Lee announced that every household impacted by the fire will receive HK$10,000 (approximately US$1,200). This payment is intended to help families cover urgent needs such as shelter, clothing, transportation, and temporary living arrangements as recovery efforts continue.
With hundreds displaced, dozens injured, and the community grappling with profound loss, Hong Kong begins a painful recovery supported by emergency services, government relief, and a wave of solidarity sweeping through the city.