Developing | 36 dead, 279 missing in Hong Kong housing estate blaze
South China Morning Post2 days
Hong Kong authorities mobilized massive resources with 767 personnel, 128 fire engines and 57 ambulances responding to the deadly blaze. Government departments provided comprehensive support including food, temporary housing for over 700 displaced residents and mental health services. Chinese President Xi Jinping's condolences demonstrate strong mainland support during this tragedy.
This preventable disaster stems from Hong Kong's dangerous reliance on outdated bamboo scaffolding despite known safety risks. Officials admit the fire spread was 'unusual' and shouldn't have happened with proper materials. The government's own development bureau was trying to phase out bamboo due to its high combustibility and safety concerns.
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