Post by : Rameen Ariff

Hong Kong, Nov 27, 2025: At least 44 people have died after a major fire broke out at the Wang Fuk Court housing complex in the Tai Po district, highlighting safety risks linked to bamboo scaffolding. The fire spread rapidly across green construction mesh and bamboo poles, causing parts of the building exterior to collapse in flames.

The origin of the blaze is still unknown, but the fire quickly engulfed the bamboo scaffolding used on the building. Bamboo, bound with nylon cords, has been a traditional material for scaffolding in Hong Kong and China for centuries due to its flexibility, abundance, and low cost. Despite the city’s modern skyline, around 2,500 registered bamboo scaffolding masters still work in Hong Kong, although metal scaffolding has become more common.

Witnesses reported heavy gunfire near the building as flames tore through the bamboo structures, while the green protective mesh used to prevent falling debris also caught fire. The Hong Kong government has launched a task force to investigate the incident, focusing on whether the building’s exterior and scaffolding met fire safety standards.

Hong Kong’s leader, John Lee, said the government would hold those responsible accountable and review safety regulations. Labour Secretary Chris Sun confirmed that bamboo scaffolding would not be banned at this stage, though stricter fire-retardant standards are being enforced for construction nets.

Recent years have seen several fires linked to bamboo scaffolding, including incidents in Chinachem Tower and other residential complexes. Experts have warned that many housing complexes still use flammable scaffolding materials, putting workers and residents at risk.

The Hong Kong Labour Department has issued guidelines requiring scaffolding nets and protective materials to meet recognised fire-retardant standards. Advocacy groups and whistle-blowers have repeatedly raised concerns about inadequate safety measures in construction projects, urging more rigorous inspections.

As Hong Kong mourns the victims, authorities are expected to strengthen safety regulations and review the use of bamboo scaffolding in residential and public construction projects.

#world news #Global News