Paul Chow, a former resident of a Hong Kong apartment complex for over 30 years, is reeling from the devastation of a catastrophic fire that has claimed over 150 lives. The images of his former home reduced to ashes are almost unbearable.
Reflecting on the tragedy, Chow expressed disbelief that such a disaster could occur in Hong Kong, likening it to a scene from a movie. Having moved to Toronto three years ago, he watched helplessly from afar as the fire ravaged the eight-block complex in Tai Po district, where he spent his childhood.
The blaze, which ignited at the Wang Fuk Court complex last Wednesday, tore through seven towers fueled by foam panels and bamboo scaffolding. It took two days for firefighters to fully extinguish the flames, leaving a trail of destruction and loss.
As the death toll surpasses 150, with dozens still missing, authorities are grappling with the aftermath of the worst fire to hit the region in a century. In response, 14 individuals, including scaffolding subcontractors and construction company officials, have been arrested in connection with a multi-million dollar renovation project linked to the fire.
Calls for transparency and accountability have grown louder, with Andy Wong of Canada-Hong Kong Link urging for an independent inquiry to uncover the causes of the tragedy and any potential criminal negligence. The community in Toronto is set to come together at North York Memorial Community Hall to mourn the victims and demand answers.
Keyphrase: Hong Kong fire tragedy