Inferno in Hong Kong: Unsafe Construction Blamed for Deadly Blaze

A massive fire at Hong Kong's Wang Fuk Court claimed at least 55 lives and left nearly 300 missing. The fire, potentially caused by negligent construction, has prompted a $38.6 million aid fund. An investigation is underway, with ties to unsafe materials and potential graft being examined.

A devastating fire ravaged the Wang Fuk Court apartment complex in Hong Kong, resulting in at least 55 fatalities and leaving nearly 300 unaccounted for. The blaze, thought to be fueled by negligent construction practices, posed significant challenges to firefighting efforts amid intense heat and thick smoke.

Hong Kong's Chief Executive, John Lee, responded to the city's deadliest fire in decades by announcing a HK$300 million fund to aid affected residents. Authorities are investigating the construction practices of Prestige Construction and Engineering Company Limited, with preliminary findings indicating potential negligence in the use of unsafe materials.

Amid ongoing rescue operations, the Hong Kong community has rallied with donations from prominent Chinese firms. Concerns about affordable housing and building safety standards continue to rise, with the incident recalling tragic parallels to the Grenfell Tower fire in London in 2017. Investigations and reform efforts are underway as the city braces for political implications.

(With inputs from agencies.)