Hong Kong unites to build safe haven for Tai Po fire victims

1/12/2025 11:58

The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government, together with various sectors of society, is continuing to assist Wang Fuk Court residents in Tai Po in overcoming difficulties since a major fire broke out there on Nov. 26.



As of 4 p.m. local time on Sunday, the fire had claimed 146 lives and injured 79 people. The police confirmed the safety of 159 residents previously reported missing.



Alice Mak Mei-kuen, secretary for home and youth affairs of the HKSAR government, said on Sunday that the HKSAR government will ensure residents affected by the fire will have a place to live throughout the rebuilding process, stressing that all government-provided services and measures will be free of charge.



Michael Wong, deputy financial secretary of the HKSAR government and head of a task force on emergency accommodation arrangements, said that more than 1,500 residents are currently staying in government-provided facilities free of charge. Two-thirds are housed in transitional housing and dedicated rehousing estates of the Housing Society, while about 500 are staying in hotels.