Author: Satoshi Nakamoto

HONG KONG — The 2025 Legislative Council (LegCo) elections, featuring significantly extended polling hours, saw sluggish initial turnout figures on Thursday, though some districts, notably those recovering from a recent disaster, lagged considerably behind the city-wide average. The day-long vote, which began an hour early at 7:30 a.m. and will conclude an hour later than usual at 11:30 p.m., is selecting 90 lawmakers across three electoral streams.

By 3:30 p.m., the overall turnout for the crucial geographically based direct election stood at 19.57%, representing 808,490 ballots cast. This rate demonstrates only a marginal increase compared to the previous LegCo election in 2021, despite the expanded 16-hour voting window designed to enhance accessibility.

The election utilizes a restructured system: 40 members will be chosen by the Election Committee, 30 through functional constituencies (representing various professional and sectoral interests), and 20 via direct election across geographical constituencies.

While the Election Committee constituency saw rapid voting, recording a 91.34% turnout rate by mid-afternoon, the geographical direct election figures provided the clearest gauge of public participation. By 2:30 p.m., the direct election rate reached 17.40%.

Regional Disparities Emerge in Direct Election

A significant disparity emerged among the ten geographical districts. New Territories Northeast recorded the lowest participation, registering a 16.66% turnout by 2:30 p.m., notably below the city average. This constituency, which was recently affected by a major fire in Tai Po, appeared to be struggling to mobilize voters.

Conversely, the New Territories Southwest constituency showed the highest regional engagement early in the day, reaching 15.88% by 1:30 p.m. Kowloon West recorded the lowest figure at that time, just 14.53%.

Election officials have implemented several measures for this cycle to accommodate voters, including utilizing 615 general polling stations located primarily in public facilities such as schools and government buildings. Citizens need only present their Hong Kong Identification Card to cast a vote at their assigned location.

Comparing Turnout Rates with Previous Polls

Election watchers noted that the current turnout pace remains relatively consistent with the last major election cycle. By 12:30 p.m., the direct election participation was 12.99% (536,527 votes). In the 2021 election, the turnout at the same time was slightly lower at 12.08%, though the total number of voters (540,336) was similar. Analysts caution that a direct comparison is complicated by the earlier start time in this year’s election.

The results of Thursday’s election are highly anticipated, as they will determine the composition of the new legislative body. The final turnout figures, especially for the geographical districts, will be scrutinized by political observers as a measure of public engagement under Hong Kong’s reformed electoral framework. The lengthy polling period is set to conclude late tonight, with results expected to begin filtering in early Friday morning.

HONG KONG, October 7 — Hong Kong’s Legislative Council elections, held today, saw moderate voter engagement in the initial hours of polling, with overall turnout trending slightly above the comparable measurement period from the last election, according to preliminary figures released by authorities. The election features an extended 16-hour voting window, beginning an hour earlier at 7:30 a.m. and concluding later at 11:30 p.m., as citizens cast ballots for a realigned legislature.

The newly configured Legislative Council will comprise 90 members, elected through three distinct streams: 40 seats filled by the Election Committee, 30 via functional constituencies, and 20 through geographical constituencies (direct election). A total of 615 general polling stations, predominantly located at schools and government facilities, have been established across the territory for registered voters.

By 2:30 p.m., the direct election turnout reached 17.40%, accounting for approximately 719,000 votes. This compares closely with the previous election cycle, where the turnout at the halfway point was marginally lower, although the earlier start time this year makes direct comparison complex. At 12:30 p.m., the direct election rate stood at 12.99%, slightly higher than the 12.08% recorded at the same time slot in the 2021 election.

Regional Disparities Emerge

Analysis of the figures reveals significant variations in participation across the geographical constituencies. The Election Committee substream, which represents a highly selective group of voters, reported an overwhelmingly high turnout of 91.34% by mid-afternoon, reflecting the distinct nature of that voting body.

However, in the direct election segments, regional disparities were evident. New Territories Southwest initially recorded the highest direct election turnout at 15.88% by 1:30 p.m. Conversely, the New Territories Northeast segment consistently recorded the lowest participation rate among all ten geographical constituencies, dropping to 16.66% by 2:30 p.m.

This lower engagement in New Territories Northeast follows recent local challenges, including a significant fire in Tai Po, which may have impacted local voter focus or access on election day. Kowloon West also struggled with low enthusiasm, reporting a 14.53% turnout at the 1:30 p.m. mark.

Extended Polling Hours Aim for Accessibility

The decision to extend polling hours by two hours overall—one hour earlier start and one hour later close—was implemented to enhance accessibility and provide maximum opportunity for citizens to vote outside of standard working hours. Voters are required only to present their valid Hong Kong identity card at their designated polling station to exercise their right to vote.

The new legislative structure further solidifies changes introduced to the electoral system, emphasizing broad representation through the Election Committee and functional constituencies, while reducing directly elected seats.

As polling continues into the evening, election authorities and media outlets, including this newspaper, will closely monitor final turnout figures in what remains a pivotal election defining the future composition of Hong Kong’s governing body. The final voter participation rate is anticipated to provide a crucial barometer of public engagement with the revised electoral system.

HONG KONG—Voters across Hong Kong cast ballots today in the 2025 Legislative Council election, which featured significantly extended polling hours designed to boost turnout, though initial figures reflect only a marginal improvement compared to the previous cycle. The day-long vote, which began at 7:30 a.m. and will conclude at 11:30 p.m.—a 16-hour window—determines the 90 seats in the legislature, allocated among three distinct streams: the Election Committee (40 seats), functional constituencies (30 seats), and geographical constituencies (20 seats).

By 1:30 p.m. local time, the turnout rate for the geographical constituencies stood at 15.18%, involving 627,139 voters. This figure represents a slight uptick from the 2021 legislative election, which recorded a 12.08% turnout by 12:30 p.m. However, analysts caution that the comparison is imperfect, as polling began one hour earlier today.

Regional Disparities Emerge Early

Geographical turnout rates showed noticeable regional variation early in the process. New Territories Southwest reported the highest participation rate at midday, reaching 15.88%. Conversely, Kowloon West registered the lowest rate at 14.53%.

Intriguingly, the region of New Territories Northeast, which has been affected by a recent fire incident in Tai Po, recorded the second-lowest turnout at 14.55% by 1:30 p.m., placing it below the city-wide average. Typically, social and local events, even disruptive ones, can sometimes galvanize or depress local voter participation differently across districts.

The election utilizes 615 general polling stations situated primarily in schools and government facilities, requiring voters to present only their Hong Kong identity card to exercise their franchise at their designated station.

Breakdown of Early Turnout Metrics

While early figures suggest slightly higher participation rates in the geographical districts compared to 2021, functional constituencies and the Election Committee stream also recorded movement. By 8:30 a.m., shortly after polls opened, the functional constituency turnout was 2.31%, while the Election Committee saw a high initial burst of 15.48%.

The sustained flow of voters throughout the morning was tracked closely:

• 8:30 a.m.: 1.65% (67,991 voters)
• 9:30 a.m.: 4.18% (172,537 voters)
• 11:30 a.m.: 10.33% (426,900 voters)
• 12:30 p.m.: 12.99% (536,527 voters)

The early surge in the Election Committee voting is typical, as this block comprises institutional voters and nominated individuals who often cast their ballots early in the day.

Focus on the New Legislative Composition

This election solidifies the new composition of the Legislative Council, shaped by recent electoral reforms. Under the revised framework, only 20 seats are directly elected by the public through geographical constituencies, concentrating most of the power within the Election Committee (40 seats) and the various functional constituencies (30 seats).

The long polling period, a key feature of this election cycle, was implemented to maximize resident convenience and engagement. However, the true impact of the extended hours on overall voter engagement will only become clear once final tally results are announced following the close of polls later tonight. Observers will continue to monitor whether the efforts to facilitate voting translate into a significantly higher ultimate participation rate compared to previous elections under the pre-reform system.

HONG KONG, December 7 — Hong Kong’s Chief Executive, John Lee Ka-chiu, cast his vote this morning at the Legislative Council (LegCo) elections, stressing the poll’s significance in driving institutional reform and supporting victims of the recent devastating fire at Hung Fuk Court. Lee, accompanied by his wife, Janet Lam Lai-sim, voted around 8:30 a.m. at Bishop’s College on Robinson Road, marking the start of the city-wide crucial election.

Speaking to the media after voting, Lee described the electoral process at polling stations as “smooth and orderly,” and appealed directly to the public to participate actively. He characterized the ballot as “a vote to drive reform, a vote to protect disaster victims, and a vote to forge a united way forward” for Hong Kong. He emphasized that a strong mandate for the new legislature would empower the government to address critical societal issues, underscoring the necessity of high voter participation to “build a better Hong Kong.”

Focus on Accountability After Fatal Blaze

A central theme of the Chief Executive’s remarks was the government’s commitment to accountability following the tragic Hung Fuk Court fire. Lee expressed profound urgency in uncovering the truth and ensuring justice for those affected. He announced plans to swiftly establish an independent inquiry, to be led by a judge currently being sought, to investigate the causes and implications of the inferno.

“The Hung Fuk Court fire is heartbreaking, and we have extensive work ahead, including supporting victims, reconstruction, and crucially, determining the responsibility and promoting systemic reforms to enhance community safety and peace of mind,” Lee stated. He stressed that he would not wait for all investigation aspects to materialize before taking action, describing himself as an “impatient person” committed to securing citizens’ well-being rapidly.

The government intends to present its first motion to the new LegCo, immediately upon its first meeting, focusing on institutional reforms catalyzed by the fire and mechanisms to support victims. Lee highlighted the legislature’s vital role, including its power to approve funding and enact new laws, as justification for citizen involvement in the election.

Streamlined Voting Procedures Implemented

In an effort to maximize accessibility and convenience for constituents, authorities deployed multiple measures across the city. Lee reported that the voting process was seamless and that polling station staff were clear in their explanations.

The election saw the establishment of more than 660 voting centers. This included over 610 general polling stations, supplemented by dedicated facilities catering to specific groups. Special provisions encompass 10 stations for disciplined services and civil servants, seven for Hospital Authority medical staff, two for ethnic minorities, and facilities for the elderly and disabled across 11 care homes and four residential facilities. Additionally, voters traveling in and out of Hong Kong could cast their ballots at three strategically located voting centers at Sheung Shui, the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, and the Airport.

Lee confirmed that early reports from various districts, including Tai Po, indicated smooth operation and assured that assistance would be provided to any voter needing support. He also commended businesses offering incentives or discounts to voters and those contributing to the fire relief effort, calling such support “meaningful.”

When pressed on whether he would guarantee the full public release of the Hung Fuk Court fire inquiry report during his tenure, Lee reiterated his strong commitment to truth and responsibility. He concluded by asserting that the findings of the judicial committee would directly inform the government’s immediate reform agenda, promising prompt public announcements once decisions regarding the inquiry judge and scope are finalized.

Hong Kong voters began casting ballots today, December 7, for the highly anticipated Eighth Legislative Council (LegCo) election, with polling stations open for an extended 16-hour period, running from 7:30 a.m. until 11:30 p.m. local time. The election sees 161 candidates competing for 90 seats across three distinct categories—geographical constituencies, functional constituencies, and the Election Committee sector—as government officials urged high participation rates despite recent social tensions.

The city has established 615 general polling places, primarily located in public facilities like schools and community centers, accessible to eligible electors. This year’s contest features 51 hopefuls vying for 20 seats in ten geographical constituencies, 60 candidates competing for 30 seats in professional and commercial functional constituencies, and 50 individuals seeking the 40 seats allocated to the Election Committee sector, a slight reduction from the previous cycle.

Chief Executive Urges Participation Amid Push for Reform

Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu cast his vote early this morning at the Raimondi College polling station, accompanied by his wife, Janet Lam Lai-cham. Lee described the voting process as smooth and praised the dedication of election staff, noting that the government implemented several measures to facilitate voting, including longer hours and the establishment of dedicated polling stations for civil servants and ethnic minorities.

In a direct appeal to the public, the Chief Executive emphasized the importance of high voter turnout. “This vote is crucial,” Lee stated, stressing that greater public participation is vital for safeguarding community interests and fostering overall societal development. “The more people who participate, the better it is,” he added.

Beyond the election, Lee addressed the recent tragedy—a devastating fire at the Tai Po Wan Fuk Court—pledging a thorough, impartial investigation and promoting systemic reforms. He announced that one of the new LegCo’s first orders of business would be for the government to introduce a motion addressing disaster relief and post-fire reconstruction efforts for those affected.

Prioritizing Impartial Investigations and Systemic Change

The Chief Executive reaffirmed his commitment to transparency and accountability regarding the fire incident. Describing himself as an “impatient person,” Lee stated he is actively seeking a judge to head the inquiry and will engage with them immediately to determine the best path to uncover the truth and drive institutional improvements.

He stressed that the investigation findings would not wait for a complete final report but would be acted upon progressively to ensure swiftly addressing residents’ concerns and restoring public confidence. Lee affirmed that the process would be conducted with fairness and impartiality, using the revealed problems as catalysts for government policy adjustments.

The election campaign included numerous forums across various geographical and functional constituencies, where candidates debated crucial policy issues ranging from economic stimulus and infrastructure projects like the Northern Metropolis development to social issues such as elderly care, cross-boundary medical arrangements, and challenges facing commercial sectors.

As polls remain open late into the evening, local news outlets continue to provide real-time updates on turnout figures and election developments, offering citizens comprehensive coverage of this significant political event. The results of the election will determine the composition of the new legislative body tasked with scrutinizing government policies and shaping the city’s legal framework for the coming term.

HONG KONG, June 7 — Hong Kong police arrested a 48-year-old man early Friday morning in the city’s Central district on suspicion of driving under the influence after passersby reported a stationary vehicle with an unresponsive driver inside. The incident, which occurred on Lower Albert Road just before 5 a.m., resulted in no injuries but highlights the persistent dangers of intoxicated driving in the urban center.

Authorities swiftly responded after a concerned citizen notified police around 4:51 a.m. regarding a private car parked unusually, leading to fears the driver had fallen unconscious. Upon arrival, officers assessed the scene and identified the driver, surnamed Cheuk. Initial checks indicated a strong smell of alcohol emanating from the man, prompting a field sobriety test.

The police confirmed that Mr. Cheuk failed the mandatory alcohol breath test, exceeding the legal limit for driving. He was immediately taken into custody under suspicion of drunk driving and is currently being detained for further investigation. The specific legal threshold in Hong Kong for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 50 milligrams per 100 milliliters of blood, or a breath alcohol reading of 22 micrograms per 100 milliliters of breath.

Zero Tolerance Stance

The early hour of the arrest underscores that drunk driving incidents are not confined to late nights or weekends. Central, a major financial and entertainment hub, is frequently patrolled, yet intoxicated driving remains a serious public safety concern.

“This arrest demonstrates the vigilance of both the public and our officers in maintaining road safety,” commented Chief Inspector Lam of the Hong Kong Police Traffic Enforcement Unit, speaking generally about recent efforts. “Our message is clear: zero tolerance for driving under the influence. It poses an unacceptable risk to every pedestrian and road user.”

Under Hong Kong law, the penalties for driving while exceeding the prescribed alcohol limit are severe, encompassing heavy fines, immediate license suspension, and potential imprisonment, particularly for repeat offenders.

Context and Public Safety

The incident follows ongoing campaigns by the Transport Department and law enforcement focusing on reducing traffic accidents through increased awareness and enforcement, especially concerning the “fatal five” behavioral factors: speeding, drunk driving, drug driving, dangerous driving, and fatigue.

The quick action of the passerby in reporting the stationary vehicle likely prevented a more serious situation. This type of timely public intervention is often credited by authorities for mitigating potential harm caused by impaired drivers. The case now proceeds through the legal system, where police will compile evidence before formal charges are laid.

Police urge all drivers to utilize public transport, taxis, or designated driver services if they plan to consume alcohol, reinforcing the principle that impaired driving is a preventable crime. Further details regarding the driver’s condition or the precise alcohol level were not immediately released, pending the formal police inquiry.

HONG KONG — A strengthening surge of the northeast monsoon is bringing clear skies and notably dry conditions to southern China, including Hong Kong, though residents should brace for a stark shift as a cold front is forecast to sweep across the region by the weekend, ushering in significantly cooler temperatures. While daytime highs today are projected to peak around 24 degrees Celsius, rural areas experienced significant overnight cooling, with some New Territories districts dipping near 14 degrees Celsius due to clear conditions and light winds promoting terrestrial radiation loss.

The prevailing weather pattern is characterized by the dominance of the seasonal monsoon, which is ensuring stable, relatively benign weather across Guangdong province for the near term. The air remains mild and dry, creating pleasant, if somewhat crisp, days balanced by cooler nights, a characteristic result of the monsoon’s influence over the South China coast. Moderate easterly to northeasterly winds are expected to continue today, reinforcing the dry atmosphere.

Tropical System Weakens After Crossing Philippines

Further impacting regional dynamics is a tropical depression currently traversing the central and southern Philippines. As of 5 a.m., the low-pressure system was located approximately 490 kilometers east-southeast of Manila, tracking west at about 15 kilometers per hour. Forecasters anticipate the system will move into the southern South China Sea over the next two days, where it is expected to gradually weaken as it encounters unfavorable conditions. While this storm is not projected to directly affect weather in Hong Kong, its movement and subsequent degradation will contribute to the broader atmospheric flow.

The calm weather pattern is set to be disrupted starting mid-week. A broad band of cloud cover is expected to migrate towards the Guangdong coast from Wednesday onward. This increased cloudiness will precede a decisive weather change due on Friday and Saturday.

Cold Front Signals Major Weekend Chill

Meteorologists confirm that a cold front is projected to reach southern China this weekend. This frontal passage will be marked by a significant increase in northerly winds, bringing a noticeable drop in mercury levels and the possibility of isolated showers. The transition will be dramatic, requiring residents to layer up quickly.

Looking into early next week, the area will remain under the influence of the cold front’s aftermath, dominated by the fresh push of the northeast monsoon. Temperatures along the Guangdong coast, including Hong Kong, will feel distinctly cool in the mornings and evenings, although skies are expected to clear gradually, restoring the dry, sunny conditions typical of late autumn and early winter. Residents are advised to monitor the forecast closely as the substantial difference between indoor heating and outdoor chill could pose minor health risks. The large diurnal temperature range characteristic of dry inland areas remains a key feature to watch in the immediate future.

HONG KONG — Authorities detained a man early Sunday morning after campaign materials for legislative candidates were reportedly defaced in the Sham Shui Po district, casting a brief shadow over the ongoing Legislative Council elections. Police arrested a man in his 70s near 88-90 Pei Ho Street around 3 a.m. after receiving reports that election posters had been vandalized, marking the latest incident of campaign material destruction during the canvassing period.

The incident involved at least two campaign posters affixed to roadside stalls being torn down, according to initial reports from the scene. Police confirmed the arrest and stated that an investigation into the destruction of the election advertisements is underway. Details regarding the motive of the individual detained, identified only as an elderly man, were not immediately released.

These elections, crucial for filling seats in Hong Kong’s legislative body, feature candidates vying for representation across various geographical constituencies. The affected area falls within the Kowloon West geographical constituency, one of the electoral districts currently seeing intense competition.

Five candidates are running for the Kowloon West seats. They include Leung Man-kwong of the West Kowloon New Power, Cheng Wing-shun representing the Democratic Alliance for the Betterment and Progress of Hong Kong (DAB), Pang Chiu-fai of the Business and Professionals Alliance for Hong Kong (BPA), Kwan Wai-hei, who identifies as independent, and Alice Lau Oi-sze, the Chief Executive of Lok Sin Tong.

While incidents of minor vandalism are not uncommon during election cycles globally, the destruction of official campaign materials violates election laws designed to ensure fair campaigning opportunities for all candidates. Electoral regulations strictly prohibit the unauthorized removal or damage of lawfully displayed election advertisements.

The police presence was heightened across Hong Kong on election day to maintain order and ensure the smooth running of the polls. Authorities have urged the public to report any suspicious activity related to the election process to maintain the integrity of the voting system. Campaign teams across the city have invested significant resources into outreach and display material, making instances of damage particularly frustrating for candidates navigating a complex electoral landscape.

The broader implications of such incidents are being assessed by electoral watchdogs, particularly concerning the maintenance of a level playing field for all political contenders. Authorities are expected to provide further updates on the investigation into the vandalism as the election results begin to materialize.

Hong Kong authorities arrested two construction managers over the weekend following a grave incident in Wan Chai where a mainland Chinese woman was critically injured by a falling object while collecting cardboard for recycling. The victim, identified only as 51-year-old Ms. Peng, sustained severe head trauma Friday afternoon in an alleyway near 48 Yee Wo Street and remains unconscious and in critical condition at Queen Mary Hospital.

Police received a report Saturday morning from the woman’s sister regarding the incident, which occurred around 9 a.m. Friday. Initial reports suggested Ms. Peng had been struck by an iron bar, but a preliminary investigation by the Wan Chai District Criminal Investigation Team later determined that she was hit by a falling fixed pulley, measuring approximately 10 by 3.5 centimeters. Witnesses reported a pool of blood at the scene following the impact.

The injured woman was traveling to Hong Kong on a “two-way permit,” typically issued to mainland Chinese residents visiting the SAR. Sources familiar with the situation indicate she was collecting discarded paper and cardboard at the time of the catastrophic accident.

On Saturday, police arrested two male contractors, aged 41 and 48, on suspicion of “allowing an object to fall from a building.” The two men, identified only by the surname Chan, are believed to be the principal and secondary contractors responsible for work underway at the location, which is situated in a highly congested commercial district. They are currently being held for questioning as the investigation into operational safety failures continues.

The case highlights persistent public safety concerns surrounding construction sites and loose material management in dense urban areas like Hong Kong. Regulations strictly mandate that site controllers take all necessary precautions to prevent debris or tools from falling onto public thoroughfares or adjacent properties.

“This is not merely an accident; it is negligence that severely injured a member of the public,” said Chan Wing-kit, a spokesperson for a local labor safety advocacy group, emphasizing the strict liability involved in these incidents. “The responsible parties must be held accountable to send a clear message about pedestrian safety.”

The incident also draws renewed attention to the perilous existence of elderly street recyclers, many of whom rely on collecting discarded materials for meager earnings and often work close to dangerous construction zones or busy traffic.

The specific circumstances of the fallout—including the type of work being performed, how the pulley became dislodged, and whether appropriate debris netting or safety barriers were in place—remain the focal point of the criminal investigation led by Wan Chai Police’s Fifth Criminal Investigation Division. Authorities continue to examine records and site protocols to determine the full extent of the safety failings.

The legal penalty for allowing an object to fall from a building, if resulting in serious injury, can include significant fines and imprisonment, underscoring the severity of potential breaches of safety protocol in densely populated Hong Kong. The community awaits updates on Ms. Peng’s condition and the outcome of the police investigation.

HONG KONG, December 6 — One week after a devastating level-five fire ravaged Tai Po’s Hong Fuk Court public housing estate, the Hong Kong government announced a significant increase in financial support for affected residents, elevating the dedicated relief fund to approximately HK$3.3 billion. The massive influx of capital, driven by substantial public donations, is earmarked for long-term recovery and housing reconstruction efforts, officials confirmed today as emergency housing and comprehensive social services continue to be deployed across the district.

The Tai Po Hong Fuk Court Assistance Fund now totals roughly HK$3.3 billion, comprising the government’s initial HK$300 million seed funding combined with an estimated HK$3 billion received from external donors as of 4 p.m. today. The rapid mobilization reflects the severe impact of the blaze, which displaced thousands and necessitated an expansive response effort coordinating multiple government agencies and social services.

Financial Support and Claims Processing Accelerate

The government has expedited the processing of direct financial aid for families affected by the disaster. The maximum living allowance provided to each affected household has been doubled from HK$50,000 to HK$100,000. As of today, authorities have approved 1,125 claims for this crucial living subsidy, with payments being progressively disbursed.

In recognition of lives lost, the fund is also providing immediate support to the bereaved. Families of the deceased are entitled to a HK$200,000 condolence payment and a HK$50,000 burial allowance per fatality. To date, 85 such compassion payments have been processed. Furthermore, 1,931 households have already received a HK$10,000 emergency assistance payment to cover immediate needs.

Immediate and Medium-Term Housing Solutions

The housing crisis precipitated by the fire is being addressed through coordinated emergency shelter and transitional accommodation. As of this morning, 1,403 residents have been placed in short-term lodging, including youth hostels, temporary camps, and hotel rooms facilitated by the Home Affairs and Youth Affairs Bureau.

For residents requiring longer-term solutions, 2,599 individuals have been housed in transitional units provided by the Housing Bureau and the Hong Kong Housing Society.

While most residents are being relocated, two temporary shelters remain operational: one at the Tai Po Community Centre acting as an open standby resource, and another at the Tung Cheong Street Community Hall, which will continue to operate until all occupants have been successfully moved into dedicated emergency housing.

Social Services and Structural Integrity Checks

The Social Welfare Department (SWD) is spearheading a massive outreach campaign, with social workers having made contact with over 1,970 affected households. This effort has registered nearly 4,900 residents for the “One Household, One Social Worker” follow-up service, ensuring personalized and sustained support. Residents who have not yet connected with the SWD are urged to call 182183 immediately to register for aid.

Simultaneously, the Housing Bureau’s Independent Monitoring Unit is conducting rigorous structural safety assessments on the damaged buildings. Concrete core samples are being collected from four affected towers to determine structural integrity and long-term viability.

Enforcement of Scaffolding Removal Deadline

In a related safety measure following the fire, the Development Bureau reaffirmed an emergency directive requiring the temporary suspension of external wall maintenance work and the immediate removal of protective netting and scaffolding from building exteriors.

As of 3 p.m. today, 175 of the approximately 200 affected private buildings had complied with the order to remove wall scaffolding. Removal continues on the remaining 52 structures, with work expected to conclude within the next two days. The Buildings Department granted extension requests to three projects involving three buildings, contingent on contractors finalizing removal by next week.

The Buildings Department also issued a fresh reminder via text message today to all registered contractors, emphasizing the critical need to ensure scaffolding is free of debris or loose materials and remains structurally stable prior to and following the removal of any protective coverings, reinforcing the commitment to public safety across all ongoing construction sites.