In the wake of Hong Kong's deadliest fire in over 70 years, the city is grappling with grief and anger as questions mount over the blaze that tore through Wang Fuk Court, a subsidized housing estate in the Tai Po district. The inferno, which began on Wednesday, has claimed at least 94 lives, with hundreds still unaccounted for, marking a tragic chapter in the city's history.

Tragedy Unfolds Amidst Safety Concerns

The fire, which engulfed seven of the estate's eight high-rise buildings, has been linked to substandard renovation practices. Authorities have arrested three individuals connected to the renovation works on charges of manslaughter. Residents have voiced concerns about the use of flammable materials and the disabling of fire alarms during ongoing construction. Kiko Ma, a resident who frequently visits from Canada, lamented the preventability of the disaster, citing poor quality materials and negligent safety practices.

Government Response and Public Outcry

In response to the tragedy, Hong Kong's leader, John Lee, announced a HK$300 million fund to support affected residents and proposed replacing traditional bamboo scaffolding with metal alternatives. However, this suggestion has sparked controversy, as bamboo scaffolding is considered a cultural heritage in Hong Kong. Critics argue that focusing on bamboo detracts from addressing the root causes of the fire, which remain under investigation.

Broader Implications and Investigations

The fire has reignited discussions about Hong Kong's affordable housing crisis, where high property prices force many into cramped living conditions. The city's corruption watchdog has launched a criminal investigation into the renovation works, but doubts persist about the independence of any inquiry, given recent concerns over judicial impartiality in Hong Kong.