Hong Kong Leader Directs Probe into Tragic Blaze that Took 151
The city's chief executive, John Lee, has ordered the creation of an separate inquiry panel to examine the reasons of a catastrophic blaze that killed at least 151 people.
A Blaze of Unprecedented Scale
Last Wednesday, the majority of the residential blocks at the housing complex—which had been undergoing major refurbishment—went up in flames. Investigators have since found that construction site netting surrounding the buildings did not comply with requirements for fire resistance.
No fewer than 13 people have been arrested for suspected manslaughter, including the directors of a construction company.
"Yes, it is a tragedy, the fire was immense. Yes, we need reform. Failures have been detected in different stages. This is precisely the reason we must respond rigorously to make certain all these loopholes are plucked," stated the leader.
The Probe and Its Consequences
The fire—which spread quickly both upwards and between the blocks—was finally put out by Friday morning, some 40 hours after it ignited, and required more than 2,000 fire service personnel to bring under control.
The same day, police began entering the buildings to gather evidence. Authorities say the investigation could take several weeks.
Systemic Failures Identified
Several residents have said they were not alerted by a fire alarm when the blaze erupted. The city's fire department discovered that alarms in every tower were operating inadequately.
The relevant regulatory body has halted for now renovation projects on numerous private sites.
Demands for Probe and Detentions
Additionally, authorities are said to have arrested a individual on allegations of incitement on the weekend. He was involved with a gathering calling for an separate review into the tragedy. An internet-based appeal collected in excess of 10,000 signatures in under 24 hours before its contents were wiped.
A pair of additional persons, including a ex-local representative, were also detained by police, per press accounts.
International Reaction
The human rights organization and Human Rights Watch have both criticised the said apprehensions.
"Now is the time for the local government to openly examine the origins of the catastrophic blaze...instead of silencing those who pose valid inquiries," stated the organization.
Historical Context and Demographics
The residential complex was completed in the early 1980s and had provided close to 2,000 units for approximately 4,600 inhabitants, according to a 2021 government census.
Nearly 40% of its occupants are thought to be at least 65 years old. Some have resided in the public housing complex since its construction.
Hong Kong's second-most fatal incident on in history took 176 people in 1948 and was caused by a blast on the lower level at a commercial building. The most deadly was at a local racetrack in the early 1900s, when more than 600 individuals lost their lives.
