94 people have died in a fire that engulfed a multi-storey apartment building in Hong Kong. 279 people are missing, and over 70 are injured. Investigations into the fire have revealed the role of styrofoam and construction materials.
Hong Kong Fire: Firefighters are still struggling on the second day to control a fire that broke out in a multi-storey apartment complex in Hong Kong. The death toll from the incident rose to 94 on Thursday. Rescuers, equipped with torches, are moving from apartment to apartment in the burnt-out towers. Officials stated that fire crews are still searching all homes across the seven towers for casualties. Thick smoke was seen billowing from some windows of the Wang Fuk Court complex. Thousands of people reside in these buildings, located in the northern suburb of Tai Po district.
Details of Fire Service Operation
Derek Armb Chan, Deputy Director of Fire Services Operations, stated that the firefighting operation is nearly complete. The next phase is an intensive search and rescue operation. The fire is believed to have started on Wednesday afternoon from bamboo scaffolding and construction netting. The blaze rapidly spread across seven buildings. Chan explained that scaffolding and debris were falling from the upper floors, blocking access for emergency vehicles and severely hindering rescue efforts.
Treatment of the Injured Ongoing
Hong Kong leader John Lee reported on Thursday morning that 279 people are missing. During the press conference, officials did not provide any updated figures on the number of missing persons or those trapped inside the buildings. According to the Fire Services Department, 94 people have died in this devastating fire. Over 70 people, including 11 firefighters, were injured. Approximately 900 people were moved to temporary shelters overnight.
Facts Emerging in Investigation
As the investigation into the Hong Kong building fire progresses, the cause of the 94 deaths is becoming clear. The role of construction materials in the rapid spread of the fire is also part of the inquiry. Three senior officials from the engineering company renovating the tower complex have been arrested on suspicion of murder. According to an Associated Press report, a highly flammable styrofoam material was found installed around the windows on one floor. This styrofoam was used in the renovation.
What is Styrofoam?
Styrofoam is made from polystyrene, a petroleum-based plastic. It is extensively used in construction, insulation, and food packaging. Its use in food packaging is banned in many parts of the world, including the European Union. The reason for the ban is that styrofoam is non-biodegradable and can be carcinogenic.
