Hong Kong mandates removal of scaffolding mesh following fatal blaze

Hong Kong authorities have instructed that scaffolding mesh be removed from buildings undergoing renovations by Saturday, as investigations continue into the citys deadliest fire in decades. The tragic blaze at the Wang Fuk Court housing complex last Wednesday claimed 159 lives, with 31 residents still unaccounted for.

Officials discovered that the protective netting around the complex, which had been under extensive renovation, did not comply with fire-retardant safety standards. Bernadette Linn Hon-ho, Secretary for Development, announced that new testing protocols for scaffolding materials would be released next week.

Currently, around 200 private residential buildings and 10 public buildings are being renovated in Hong Kong, and approximately 300 structures are expected to be affected by the removal order, according to local reports. Linn emphasized that authorities would hold contractors accountable for using substandard mesh and confirmed that samples of the netting had already been collected for testing.

During the Wang Fuk Court fire, flames spread rapidly across the towers, fueled by the protective mesh and other flammable materials on the exterior of the buildings. Police have arrested at least 15 individuals on manslaughter charges as the investigation continues.

Police Commissioner Joe Chow stated that searches of all seven towers interiors have been completed, but further efforts are needed to examine areas like the remains of bamboo scaffolding for any potential victims. Of the 159 bodies recovered so far, 140 have been identified, consisting of 49 men and 91 women aged between one and 97, according to Radio Television Hong Kong.

A couple in their 70s, who lost their home in the fire, returned to the burnt site with their daughter, describing the fires rapid and devastating spread. The mother, Leung, recalled the terrifying speed at which the flames consumed the buildings and the chaotic collapse of bamboo scaffolding. Her daughter, Bonnie, expressed hope that the investigation would uncover any potential misconduct or corruption linked to the disaster.

Author: Logan Reeves