Fire at Wang Fuk Court apartment complex prompts Hong Kong prime minister to launch fund and measures.
The fires in four of the eight residential blocks in the housing estate, in Hong Kong’s Tai Po district in the northeast, have been extinguished. While three others are under the control of firefighters.
According to local information, the fire in high-rise residential buildings claimed 55 lives. Approximately 279 people are believed to be missing, .
What new we know about the fire:
- The Prime Minister of Hong Kong established a fund to help the victims of the fire.
- The evacuees were provided with free accommodation for two weeks.
- Suppliers of construction material must demonstrate its safety.
Video of the fire:
Hong Kong Prime Minister John Lee announced on Thursday the establishment of a HK$300 million (€33.3 million) fund for residents of the Wang Fuk Court housing complex, which was engulfed in a fire on Wednesday.
According to his statement, every household will receive immediate emergency aid in the amount of 10,000 Hong Kong dollars (1,110 euros) on Thursday evening. At the same time, the state will reserve a thousand hotel or accommodation places where evacuees can stay free of charge for up to two weeks.
At the same time, the Hong Kong Prime Minister announced that the authorities will inspect extensive construction and renovation works in the city. Up to 100 supplier companies will have to demonstrate the use of flame retardant materials within seven days.
At the same time, the Municipal Development Authority is discussing the gradual replacement of bamboo scaffolding in Hong Kong with metal.
