Hong Kong unites to build safe haven for Tai Po fire victims

The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government, together with various sectors of society, is continuing to assist Wang Fuk Court residents in Tai Po in overcoming difficulties since a major fire broke out there on Nov. 26.



As of 4 p.m. local time on Sunday, the fire had claimed 146 lives and injured 79 people. The police confirmed the safety of 159 residents previously reported missing.



Alice Mak Mei-kuen, secretary for home and youth affairs of the HKSAR government, said on Sunday that the HKSAR government will ensure residents affected by the fire will have a place to live throughout the rebuilding process, stressing that all government-provided services and measures will be free of charge.



Michael Wong, deputy financial secretary of the HKSAR government and head of a task force on emergency accommodation arrangements, said that more than 1,500 residents are currently staying in government-provided facilities free of charge. Two-thirds are housed in transitional housing and dedicated rehousing estates of the Housing Society, while about 500 are staying in hotels.