Hong Kong: The Hong Kong government has announced a resettlement plan to support thousands of residents displaced by a deadly fire that devastated a large public housing estate in late 2025.
The blaze, which broke out on November 26 at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po, swept through multiple residential towers and killed about 168 people. Thousands were forced to leave their homes after the buildings were declared unsafe. Investigators said the fire spread quickly due to flammable materials used during renovation work, including scaffolding coverings and foam insulation.
In response, authorities have proposed a multibillion dollar plan to help affected homeowners rebuild their lives. The government will offer to buy back ownership rights from residents whose flats were destroyed. Officials estimate the plan could cost about HK$6.8 billion, equivalent to roughly 870 million US dollars.
Under the proposal, compensation will be based on the size and value of the flats. Residents may also choose alternative options instead of a buyout. These include exchanging their damaged homes for replacement apartments under a government housing scheme or using compensation funds to purchase housing on the open market.
The plan is designed to assist about 4,600 residents from nearly 2,000 flats who were displaced by the disaster.
Authorities said they will begin contacting homeowners in March, with compensation payments expected later in the year. Residents who opt for replacement flats may begin selecting new homes by September.
A recent survey indicated that most affected residents are open to selling their ownership rights, while a smaller number prefer rebuilding at the original site. However, reconstruction could take up to a decade. Some families have expressed concern about compensation details and have called for greater transparency in the rebuilding process.
Officials say the damaged structures are beyond repair. The site may be cleared and used for community facilities or green space while long term redevelopment plans are considered.
Investigations into safety failures and construction practices linked to the fire are ongoing, and several arrests have been made in connection with suspected safety violations.
The resettlement plan marks a major step in Hong Kong’s effort to support victims and restore stability after one of the city’s deadliest housing disasters in recent years.