When you get closer the heat rises and you can feel it and the smoke is really heavy, recounted Thomas Liu, a student who witnessed the devastating aftermath of a fire engulfing the eight-block Wang Fuk Court housing complex in Hong Kong's Tai Po district.
At least 44 people have died, with many others still unaccounted for, as emergency services continue their efforts to contain the blaze that began Wednesday. Investigators are looking into the possibility of negligence regarding construction materials used in the building, leading to a quick spread of the flames. Three executives from a construction firm have been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter.
It's a disaster, lamented Liu, who described seeing a body being removed from the complex as he and numerous others flocked to the site, searching for missing loved ones.
Local councillor Mui Siu-fung shared that many residents have sent distressing messages about their missing relatives, highlighting the emotional devastation rippling through the community.
In response to the escalating crisis, over a thousand residents were evacuated, as officials set up temporary shelters and deemed nearby structures unsafe. While the fire's intensity is gradually being reduced, officials are uncertain regarding the full containment timeline.
Harry Cheung, a longtime resident of the complex, expressed his shock after witnessing flames ravaging neighboring blocks. I don't even know how I feel right now. I'm just thinking about where I'm going to sleep tonight because I probably won't be able to go back home, he said.
This fire has reignited fierce debates about building safety standards in Hong Kong, especially with reports of non-fireproof materials found at the scene. How could such a massive fire happen? asked Ms. Poon, a resident, pointing to a perceived lack of adequate fire response measures from local authorities.
The Hong Kong government has pledged support for affected residents, although many in the community have expressed feelings of helplessness and bitterness towards the way the situation has been handled.
As the flames died down, the community's attention turns from the immediate panic to concern for their future and the welfare of those who remain unaccounted for in this tragic event.
