Hong Kong Fire Tragedy: Tai Po Mourns 146 Lives Lost as Beijing Calls for Unity Amid Recovery Efforts

Hong Kong Reeling from Devastating Tai Po Fire: Mourners Gather, Beijing Calls for Unity

Hong Kong is reeling from its deadliest fire in over seven decades, as thousands gathered in Tai Po on Sunday to pay their respects to the 146 victims. The solemn remembrance saw residents forming long queues to place offerings, flowers, and heartfelt messages at a makeshift altar near the site of the devastating blaze. Amidst the city's profound grief, Beijing has issued a call for unity and healing, as a massive rescue and recovery operation continues tirelessly through the charred remains of Wang Fuk Court.

Unfolding Scale of Calamity and Ongoing Search

The true extent of the calamity is becoming clearer with each passing day. The DVIU has uncovered an additional 18 bodies within the wreckage of the Tai Po complex following Wednesday's inferno. While searches have been completed in four of the seven affected buildings, a somber count reveals approximately 40 individuals are still reported missing.

Comprehensive Resettlement Efforts Underway for Survivors

Beyond the immediate tragedy, a comprehensive resettlement initiative is actively under way to support the survivors. Deputy Financial Secretary Michael Wong Wai-lun confirmed that 1,827 individuals displaced by the fire have already been moved into temporary accommodations, including hotels and transitional housing. Looking ahead to long-term solutions, the government has successfully identified an additional 200 permanent homes, boosting the total available long-term residences to 2,000, up from the previously announced 1,800.

"We are engaged in discussions with various providers to ensure residents can secure stable housing for an extended period," stated Wong Wai-lun. "We are confident in our ability to continue providing shelter and support until all challenges arising from this disaster are comprehensively addressed." The 2021 census had previously indicated that approximately 4,600 people resided within the sprawling housing estate, which includes blocks untouched by the fire.