Post by : Badri Ariffin

In a rapid response to the tragic fire that resulted in at least 159 fatalities, Hong Kong authorities have initiated a comprehensive operation to eliminate mesh netting from all ongoing renovation works across the city. Officials indicated that the netting exacerbated the fire's spread in what is considered one of the most lethal incidents in years.

By Saturday, the government has stipulated that scaffolding nets must be taken down from both residential and commercial properties, aiming to bolster public safety trust. Consequently, all renovation activities have been halted as inspectors assess compliance with elevated safety protocols.

In Sha Tin, located a mere 15 minutes from the site of the tragedy, workers commenced the removal of the protective nets on Thursday morning. Residents, including 82-year-old C.K. Lau, expressed relief, recognizing that this could help prevent future disasters.

The investigation has led to the arrest of 21 individuals tied to the incident, including 15 affiliated with construction firms, all facing manslaughter charges. Additionally, six personnel from the fire service contractor have been arrested under suspicions of fraud.

Evidence suggests that low-quality plastic mesh and insulation, along with faulty fire alarms, contributed to the extensive 40-hour blaze. Despite previous assurances of minimal fire risks, residents of Wang Fuk Court had voiced concerns over renovation dangers.

The government has mandated that contractors will cover the expenses for removing netting from over 200 private buildings and more than 10 public facilities. New regulations are anticipated shortly, stipulating that material samples must be certified by designated labs before scaffolding nets can be reinstalled.

Ongoing investigations are probing potential falsifications of safety documentation regarding netting supplied by a Chinese firm employed at two renovation sites, including the one managed by Prestige Construction.

As of now, 140 of the 159 identified victims span ages from one to 97, with 31 individuals, including foreign domestic workers from Indonesia and the Philippines, still unaccounted for. Over 2,900 residents have been temporarily relocated to hostels, camps, and transitional housing solutions.

The city faces significant challenges ahead, balancing the immediate need for enhanced safety and the ongoing demands of construction and housing, all while the investigation into the disaster proceeds.

#Global News