By AP
December 1, 2025, 2:54:17 PM IST (Updated)
Authorities said Monday the death toll from the Hong Kong apartment-complex fire has risen to 151 after five more bodies were found. Officials added that the netting covering scaffolding around the buildings that burned did not meet code.
On Saturday, November 29, China launched a sweeping inspection of fire-safety standards in high-rise buildings nationwide, aimed at preventing a similar disaster on the mainland. The Ministry of Emergency Management said special attention will be paid to buildings undergoing external wall renovations and interior modifications.
“We must comprehensively strengthen fire safety management of high-rise buildings to effectively protect people’s lives and property,” the ministry said.
The State Council Work Safety Committee issued a notice to local authorities to begin the inspections. Chinese authorities remain sensitive to incidents affecting social stability after a deadly 2022 blaze in Xinjiang prompted nationwide protests amid strict COVID-19 restrictions. The Hong Kong fire poses a major test of Beijing’s control over the city, and officials are moving quickly to show they regard the tragedy as a top priority.
The inspection campaign lists four key areas: flammable materials used in external wall insulation systems, banned construction materials such as bamboo scaffolding, fire-safety equipment, and emergency evacuation routes. Local authorities must conduct thorough inspections and take “immediate corrective actions” when hazards are found. “Strict enforcement measures will be taken against serious violations, and those failing to eliminate major safety hazards will be held accountable,” the emergency ministry said.
Hong Kong authorities have also made arrests and launched probes into scaffolding and renovation practices. The city halted election campaigning in the wake of the deadly Tai Po fire.
The blaze, which began Wednesday, rapidly engulfed seven of eight 32-storey blocks at an apartment complex that was undergoing renovation with bamboo scaffolding and foam insulation materials.
(Edited by: Gareema Bangad)
First Published:
Nov 29, 2025 4:58 PM IST
