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HONG KONG — Amid growing public discussion over organ donation rates, a Hong Kong woman who survived three near-fatal cardiac crises has become a powerful advocate for the cause, sharing her eight-year journey with a transplanted heart she affectionately calls “Na Na.” Chan Suk-yin, 64, whose life was saved by a stranger’s generosity, now urges the community, and those facing adversity, not to abandon hope. Her testimony underscores the critical need for more organ donors in a city where hundreds await lifesaving procedures.

Chan’s battle with congenital heart disease began at birth. Diagnosed with Tetralogy of Fallot, a severe condition involving four heart defects, her early years were marked by extreme frailty and cyanosis—a bluish tint to the skin caused by low blood oxygen. In an era when infant mortality from the condition was high, Chan miraculously survived, undergoing major corrective surgery at age eight that granted her a reprieve and a chance at a normal life.

However, her struggles resumed in adulthood. The diseased heart, which had grown significantly oversized—up to 10% larger than average—began compromising her respiratory function. By age 47, her cardio-pulmonary capacity had dwindled to 30%. By 56, she needed a motorized wheelchair.

The Road to a Second Birthday

The final decline was rapid and terrifying, with her blood pressure plummeting to dangerous levels. Knowing her time was limited, Chan, a devout Christian, began quietly preparing for her death, sorting possessions and planning her memorial.

“I felt a chill surge from my heart, leaving half my body icy,” Chan recalled of a moment when she felt death approaching. “I knew the grim reaper was knocking again.”

In 2015, following a year on the waiting list, she received the call that changed her life. The decision to proceed was fraught with fear, but her desire for a second chance prevailed. The transplant surgery, however, presented extraordinary challenges. Chan’s enlarged heart had adhered tightly to her lungs, creating complex adhesions. Surgeons had to work meticulously for nearly 12 hours—double the typical duration—to remove the fused organs without rupturing major arteries. Furthermore, the donor heart needed to be rotated to align with Chan’s unique vascular structure.

Chan holds deep gratitude for the anonymous donor family. “I live alongside ‘Na Na,’ welcoming every new day together,” she says, considering the date of her surgery her “second birthday.”

A Tapestry of Gratitude and Advocacy

Since her recovery, Chan has dedicated herself to promoting organ donation awareness alongside other survivors. She realized a long-held dream by conquering a challenging hike up Castle Peak in Tuen Mun—an impossible feat before the transplant.

Her story parallels that of Hong Kong Heart Transplant Mutual Support Group Chairman Tsang Wing-hang, a retired engineer who received a new heart nine years ago after enduring two heart attacks. Tsang, who waited a year for his transplant, echoed Chan’s sentiments on the immeasurable debt owed to donors.

“The surgery not only saved my life but kept my family whole,” said Tsang, who now actively participates in public education campaigns, including competitions designed to innovative ways to discuss donation.

Hong Kong’s organ donation system faces persistent difficulties keeping pace with demand. While approximately 300 heart transplants have been performed since the first procedure in 1992—Chan was the 188th recipient—the current waiting list for all organs and tissues exceeds 3,000 individuals. Critically, 76 people are currently waiting for a heart transplant.

Chan and Tsang both emphasize that while misfortune is unpredictable, focusing on gratitude and self-preservation is paramount. Chan shared a lesson from a radio program, comparing happiness to shards of a shattered glass sphere: “Real happiness lies in treasuring what you already possess.”

Their united message to those still waiting, or those facing any adversity, is clear: Do not give up. The gift of life, made possible by selfless donors, remains a beacon of hope for hundreds across the city.

The South China Sea is on alert as Tropical Storm Lyra stalled near the Paracel Islands early Monday, while Hong Kong anticipates a significant shift in weather patterns this week, transitioning from moderate rain to cooler, drier conditions fueled by seasonal monsoons. As of 5 a.m. local time, Lyra was situated approximately 250 kilometers south of the Xisha archipelago, exhibiting slow movement and expected to linger in the central South China Sea before gradually weakening and heading toward southern Vietnam within the next 48 hours.

Local conditions in Hong Kong began the day Monday under largely overcast skies, experiencing isolated light showers during the morning. Temperatures are forecast to peak at around 25 degrees Celsius amid moderate northeasterly winds. This weather is characteristic of the prevailing northeast monsoon, which continues to influence the region’s coastal areas.

Monsoon Reinforcements Bring Cooler Temperatures

Forecasters anticipate a noticeable change by mid-week triggered by the arrival of a fresh monsoon surge. A reinforcing band of monsoon air is projected to push into Southern China between Tuesday evening and early Wednesday. This influx is poised to deliver significantly cooler mornings across the region during the latter half of the week.

The current weather system involves a persistent cloud band that is responsible for the ongoing occasional drizzle. As this cloud cover dissipates, the temperature difference between day and night in inland areas is expected to widen considerably, a signature effect of drier winter air from the north.

Forecast Highlights for the Week

Tuesday is predicted to remain mostly cloudy, with the possibility of light rain in the morning and evening hours. However, the meteorological shift truly sets in on Wednesday, marked by winds turning predominantly northerly. This transition will usher in a stretch of several days featuring notably cooler mornings and periods of sunshine later in the day.

The trajectory of Tropical Storm Lyra, locally known as Tianqin, will remain a point of interest for regional shipping and aviation. Though it is not currently forecast to directly impact Hong Kong, its prolonged presence in the central maritime zone maintains turbulent sea conditions. Its expected dissipation over Vietnam’s southern coast offers relief, removing the immediate threat of a major tropical cyclone developing further north.

This dual atmospheric pressure—the near-stationary tropical storm juxtaposed with intensifying seasonal winds—is a common late-season feature in East Asia. Local authorities advise residents to prepare for fluctuating temperatures, reminding those venturing outdoors to layer clothing, especially given the expected sharp drops in morning temperatures later in the week. The increase in sunshine hours coupled with the cooler, drier air mass suggests an effective end to the current mild, damp spell and the firm establishment of autumn weather.

HONG KONG, May 1 – A fierce fire erupted in the Wong Tai Sin district of Hong Kong early Wednesday morning, injuring one resident and prompting a major evacuation at a public housing complex. Multiple emergency calls flooded local fire services around 5 a.m., reporting flames and thick smoke billowing from a flat in Oi Wing House, part of the Tsz Oi Court estate.

Firefighters quickly mobilized responding to the severe conflagration. Upon arrival, crews deployed high-pressure water jets to combat the intense blaze and immediately began moving numerous residents from the affected block as a precautionary measure.

The fire was eventually brought under control and extinguished. One male occupant of the damaged unit sustained injuries and was transported by ambulance to a nearby hospital for treatment. Authorities confirmed the victim was conscious during transit.

Initial assessments point toward the flat’s kitchen as the likely origin of the fire, investigators stated. While the immediate danger has passed, the precise cause remains under investigation by the Fire Services Department.

Focus on Residential Fire Safety

The incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding fire safety protocols within densely populated residential areas like those found across Hong Kong. Public housing estates, characterized by high-density living and close proximity of units, face heightened risks when emergencies occur.

“Quick response and clear evacuation routes are absolutely critical in these high-rise settings,” said Lam Wai-keung, a former fire safety consultant, speaking generally about urban blazes. “Even a small kitchen fire can rapidly overwhelm a unit and threaten surrounding floors due to chimney effects through ventilation shafts and open windows.”

According to the Hong Kong Fire Services Department, common causes of residential fires often involve cooking accidents, overloaded electrical sockets, and unattended flames. Residents are frequently reminded to maintain vigilant fire safety habits, particularly in enclosed spaces.

Investigation Underway

Fire investigators cordoned off the affected floor of Oi Wing House throughout the morning to collect evidence and conduct a thorough forensic examination. The investigation aims to determine whether the ignition was accidental—such as a grease fire or electrical fault—or if other factors contributed to the outbreak.

Authorities stressed the importance of community cooperation in such incidents. The rapid reporting by multiple neighbors was crucial in allowing emergency responders to minimize damage and potential further casualties.

The Housing Authority is expected to assess the structural damage to the unit and provide temporary housing assistance to the displaced occupants as repairs are scheduled. This early morning incident serves as a stark reminder for all city residents to review and practice their home fire escape plans. Further updates on the investigation are anticipated in the coming days.

Mong Kok, Hong Kong – Police in the bustling district of Mong Kok swiftly apprehended a driver early Friday morning following a dramatic foot chase that led to the discovery of illicit vaping cartridges containing a substance suspected to be etomidate, an emerging recreational drug. The incident, occurring around 2 a.m. at a vehicle checkpoint on Sai Yee Street, also revealed the suspect was allegedly operating a stolen vehicle while disqualified from driving.

The arrest unfolded after officers established a roadblock near a substation to screen suspicious vehicles. When a seven-seater car approached the stop, the male driver abruptly exited the vehicle and attempted to flee on foot. Officers immediately pursued, tackling and subduing the suspect after a brief chase.

During the subsequent search, law enforcement recovered approximately 20 electronic cigarette cartridges suspected to contain etomidate, sometimes colloquially referred to as “space oil” (太空油) locally. Etomidate is typically used as a short-acting intravenous anesthetic in medical settings but has recently been diverted for recreational use, often through vaping, leading to severe side effects including hallucinations and loss of consciousness.

Further investigation at the scene exposed a series of serious offenses committed by the man. He was found to be driving a vehicle reported stolen and was also operating it while his license was suspended, police said. Consequently, the individual was arrested on suspicion of trafficking in dangerous drugs, vehicle theft, and multiple traffic-related violations.

A police drug detection dog was later deployed to the scene to conduct a more extensive search of the vehicle and surrounding area. However, the search did not yield any additional contraband substances beyond the vaping cartridges initially seized.

This incident underscores the ongoing challenge faced by Hong Kong authorities in combating the distribution of novel psychoactive substances (NPS). The use of e-cigarette technology to administer these drugs creates difficulties for enforcement, as the packaging often mimics legitimate vaping products. Drug trafficking penalties in Hong Kong are stringent, with convictions for serious offenses carrying lengthy prison terms and substantial fines. Law enforcement agencies continue to warn the public about the dangers associated with experimenting with untested or unregulated substances like etomidate.

Authorities have confirmed they are continuing investigations into the source and distribution network of the seized drug cartridges, aiming to dismantle operations exploiting this new method of delivery. The suspect remains in custody pending further questioning.

A Cathay Pacific Airbus A350 passenger jet traveling from Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, aborted its initial landing attempt at Hong Kong International Airport last Wednesday evening, sustaining apparent damage to its tail section upon executing a go-around. Flight CX764, operated by a Cathay Pacific A350-1000 aircraft, subsequently landed safely on its second approach, and officials confirmed that no injuries were reported among passengers or crew during the incident.

The event unfolded approximately 6,000 feet above Hong Kong when the aircraft, attempting to land on runway 07C, was deemed unstable by pilots and commanded to initiate a recovery maneuver. Aviation media reports indicate that the tail of the long-haul jet likely scraped the runway surface during the rapid ascent required for the go-around procedure. Photographic evidence circulated online showed visible damage, specifically to the metal skin, or monocoque, covering the underside of the tail section.

Immediate Grounding and Investigation Underway

Following the successful second landing, the aircraft was held on the tarmac at Chek Lap Kok Airport and immediately removed from service. Sources familiar with the situation confirmed that the plane has been grounded indefinitely to undergo extensive safety checks, mandatory repairs, and a full structural assessment.

This type of occurrence, frequently referred to as a tail strike, is a serious incident that requires thorough investigation by aviation authorities. While not uncommon, tail strikes often result from high-rate descents, improper pitch angles during landing, or premature rotation during takeoff. In this specific scenario, the maneuver to abort the landing—the go-around—appears to have been the moment of contact. Pilots execute a go-around when safety parameters are breached, such as approach speed or alignment, making the initial decision a safety necessity.

“Maintaining proper clearance between all aircraft surfaces and the ground, especially during dynamic maneuvers like a go-around, is paramount in aviation safety,” explained an independent aviation analyst, speaking on condition of anonymity due to the ongoing probe. “The resulting damage indicates that the geometry during the recovery climb was too aggressive or insufficient lift was generated immediately following the aborted landing command.”

Impact on Operations and Safety Protocols

Operational records confirm that the aircraft remained parked in Hong Kong for at least three days following the close call, highlighting the severity of the inspection process. The grounding of a wide-body, high-capacity jet like the A350-1000 places short-term pressure on Cathay Pacific’s operations, particularly on regional routes demanding such aircraft.

The incident is expected to prompt an internal review of crew procedures, stabilizer settings, and flight data relating to the initial unstable approach and the subsequent go-around. The Hong Kong Civil Aviation Department is anticipated to lead the official inquiry, scrutinizing cockpit voice recordings and flight data recorders to determine the precise circumstances leading to the tail strike.

While the primary immediate concern is the structural integrity of the aircraft, the larger focus remains on reinforcing the procedural safeguards that prevent such operational discrepancies during high-stress phases of flight. The successful second landing, despite the prior damage, underscores the proficiency of the flight crew in managing an emergent situation. However, the comprehensive investigation will aim to prevent similar incidents by refining best practices for approach stability and go-around execution.

HONG KONG, October 30 — Just days after a devastating five-alarm blaze in Tai Po tragically killed 146 people—an incident widely attributed to suspected irresponsible smoking by construction crew—a startling video shared online today showed a worker openly smoking while conducting netting removal at another construction site in Chai Wan, sparking immediate public outcry and reigniting serious concerns over job site safety compliance across the territory. The footage, captured amid intense public scrutiny following the deadly fire at Hong Fuk Court, highlights what critics are calling a blatant disregard for heightened fire risk protocols.

The video surfaced on social media platform Threads and shows a laborer, reportedly wearing the uniform of a contractor associated with major construction projects, dismantling scaffolding protective netting at a ground-level location outside the Cheung Wai Industrial Building in Chai Wan. Despite the fresh tragedy in Tai Po, where preliminary reports suggest construction crew smoking during major renovation work may have ignited the fatal fire, the worker was filmed casually smoking a cigarette while on the job.

Heightened Risk Ignored by Workers

“Mr. Hing Wah,” the proprietor of a nearby business who witnessed and filmed the incident around 2:30 p.m. local time, expressed disbelief at the worker’s behavior. Speaking to local media, he acknowledged that smoking among construction workers is common but emphasized the severe lack of judgment given the circumstances. “It’s truly outrageous. With the immense public focus on fire safety right now, they should be observing elementary caution, yet they act as if nothing happened,” Hing Wah stated, calling for greater safety awareness among construction teams.

The deadly Tai Po fire, linked to a massive renovation project at Hong Fuk Court, brought allegations from residents that workers on site had habitually ignored pleas to stop smoking. The scale of the Hong Kong tragedy has amplified calls for stricter implementation of no-smoking policies on and around active construction zones.

In the wake of the disaster, certain contractors have responded with extremely punitive measures, reportedly implementing immediate termination—not just fines—for any worker caught smoking on site, an action many online commentators argued should have been standard practice long ago.

Public Demands Accountability

The newly shared footage quickly drew sharp condemnation online, with many users directly linking the Chai Wan incident to the earlier catastrophe. Critical comments flooded social media platforms, with users labeling the smoker a “scumbag” and arguing that such reckless behavior endangers innocent lives. “Is it really that difficult not to smoke while working?” one netizen questioned. Others demanded that the identified contractor, reportedly Chevalier Construction, take immediate disciplinary action against the employee, suggesting viewers call in complaints and share the video evidence.

However, a minority of online users argued the criticism was excessive, pointing out that the worker was smoking on the street and not strictly within the confines of the enclosed construction zone, implying no legal violation occurred. Safety experts strongly disagree, noting that highly flammable materials like protective netting, even at ground level, pose significant risks when exposed to open flames, especially in crowded urban environments.

The incident underscores the persistent challenge regulatory bodies face in enforcing crucial safety protocols within Hong Kong’s vast and busy construction sector. Public safety advocates are urging the government to mandate more frequent, unannounced inspections and significantly increase penalties for contractors and workers who flout fire safety regulations, ensuring that the tragic lessons learned in Tai Po lead to lasting behavioral changes across all construction sites.

TAI PO, HONG KONG — Search teams combing the remnants of a catastrophic five-alarm fire in Hong Kong’s Tai Po district recovered an additional body Thursday, pushing the confirmed death toll to at least 128. Nearly 100 officers from the Disaster Victim Identification Unit (DVIU) returned this morning to multiple residential blocks within the Wonder Garden estate, formerly known in Cantonese as Wang Fuk Court, intensifying the grim forensic search following one of the area’s deadliest residential fires.

The latest discovery was made in Wang Shing House (宏盛閣) just before noon. Police personnel meticulously secured and removed the remains hours later, signaling the ongoing, painstaking effort to account for every victim. The fire, which also injured 83 people, has devastated the multi-story complex, leaving many apartments reduced to ash and rubble.

Search Teams Enter Collapsed Structures

The DVIU operation commenced early Thursday, with specialized officers—equipped with protective gear, non-slip footwear, and helmets—entering the severely compromised buildings. Their primary objective is to locate human remains, including body fragments or ashes, that may have been missed during initial rapid response efforts.

Sources close to the operation confirmed that previous searches of two other affected blocks—Wang Yan House (宏仁閣) and Wang Dao House (宏道閣)—had concluded without finding further casualties. However, the discovery in Wang Shing House underscores the complexity and necessity of these prolonged forensic operations.

“This is not merely a retrieval mission; it is a critical process of providing closure,” explained a safety expert familiar with disaster response protocols, who spoke on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the operation. “Teams are documenting the exact location where remains are found and noting any personal effects left by the victims. This detailed mapping is crucial for positive identification, often relying on dental records, DNA, or specific objects.”

Identifying the Unaccounted For

The scale of the devastation has hampered immediate identification efforts. The intensity of the five-alarm blaze—the second highest rating on Hong Kong’s fire severity scale—resulted in extensive structural damage and, tragically, complete incineration in some units, complicating the tasks of both structural engineers and forensic teams.

The ongoing search represents the third day of continuous, focused forensic work since the main firefighting operation ceased. Police and fire officials have not yet publicly disclosed the suspected cause of the inferno, but investigations are running parallel to the recovery efforts.

The Tai Po blaze now ranks among the worst residential fire disasters in Hong Kong’s recent history, prompting urgent reviews of building safety codes and emergency response logistics for high-density housing estates.

Broader Safety Implications

As authorities continue the heartbreaking task of identification, the focus is shifting toward supporting the hundreds of displaced residents and reinforcing fire prevention measures across the city. The catastrophic loss of life highlights the severe danger posed by fire in aging, closely packed high-rise residential buildings.

The government is expected to release an initial report detailing the environmental and structural factors that contributed to the fire’s rapid acceleration. For the families of the deceased, the relentless work of the DVIU remains the only path toward receiving definitive confirmation and beginning the process of mourning. The operation in Wonder Garden is projected to continue indefinitely until all viable areas have been thoroughly searched and cleared.

TAI PO, Hong Kong — Residents of Tai Po and surrounding areas gathered again Friday morning at Kwong Fuk Playground, near the site of the devastating five-alarm blaze at Hong Fuk Court, to offer flowers and condolences for those killed and injured in the tragedy. The outpouring of grief coincided with the immediate mobilization of corporate and community support, including a significant financial pledge from a major local transit company aimed at aiding displaced and affected residents.

Scores of people continuously arrived at the makeshift memorial, transforming the public space into a carpet of bouquets. Emotional scenes unfolded, with some mourners visibly weeping and others bowing respectfully toward the distant, fire-damaged residential building. Touching handwritten notes were taped to lampposts and stone ledges, bearing messages of solace such as, “May the departed rest in peace, and the injured recover swiftly.” Domestic workers were also observed praying quietly in the park, symbolizing the broad community impact of the disaster.

The fire, which local authorities are still investigating, has prompted swift action from numerous organizations seeking to alleviate the hardship faced by victims. Among the most prominent efforts, Kowloon Motor Bus (KMB) announced a donation of HK$2 million through its KMB Charity Foundation. This substantial contribution is earmarked for financial assistance to residents of Hong Fuk Court.

Furthermore, KMB initiated an immediate relief effort, establishing a registration booth at the Kwong Fuk Estate bus stop. Beginning Friday and running through Tuesday, December 2, each household in Hong Fuk Court is eligible to receive an emergency cash handout of HK$1,000. Long lines of residents were observed queuing at the site, eager to register for the urgent financial aid necessary for immediate needs such as temporary lodging and supplies.

Community Resilience in Crisis

The rapid influx of donations highlights the deep sense of civic responsibility following large-scale disasters in Hong Kong. While the emotional toll remains heavy—evidenced by the persistent flow of mourners days after the event—the focus now shifts to practical recovery and support for those whose homes and lives were ravaged.

The fire’s aftermath underscores critical questions about building safety and emergency response procedures in dense residential areas. Local councilors and community leaders are expected to press for comprehensive reviews once the immediate relief operations conclude.

For affected residents seeking aid, specific community centers and local NGOs have also established resource hubs offering psychological counseling and long-term housing assistance. The concerted efforts of private enterprises, religious groups, and volunteer networks emphasize a resilient community infrastructure rallying during a profound period of grief and uncertainty.

As forensic teams complete their work at Hong Fuk Court, the tragedy remains a stark reminder of urban risk. However, the memorial site’s flourishing flowers and the efficiency of the aid distribution serve as powerful testaments to the community’s collective spirit and determination to heal. Those who wish to contribute or seek verified support mechanisms are advised to contact the Tai Po District Council office or official relief organizations like the KMB Charity Foundation.

HONG KONG — Government officials in Hong Kong have successfully relocated over 1,500 residents displaced by the devastating five-alarm fire at Wang Fuk Court in Taipo last week, transitioning them from temporary shelters into stable, specialized housing options. The rapid deployment of interim lodging, including hotels, youth hostels, and long-term transitional housing, signals a concerted effort to support the victims who lost their homes in the massive blaze.

The government’s coordinated response was detailed by Deputy Financial Secretary Eric Chan and Secretary for Housing Winnie Ho, who both emphasized the commitment to assisting the affected families. Following the fire, peak occupancy across nine emergency shelters reached over 700 individuals. As of yesterday, that number has drastically dropped, with approximately 40 residents remaining in the two operational centers in Taipo, according to Mr. Chan.

Transitional Housing Offers Long-Term Stability

The bulk of the displaced residents—roughly 1,500 people—have now moved into government-arranged accommodations. This includes 500 people temporarily housed in hotels and youth hostels, while about 1,000 have secured spots in the city’s transitional housing program.

Mr. Chan stressed that this transitional housing provides a crucial, rent-free, long-term solution. “We are confident that we can allow them to stay, essentially, until issues like reconstruction are fully resolved,” he stated during a radio interview this morning. He assured residents that they would not be forced to leave the remaining shelters, promising continued support for those who feel more comfortable staying put for the moment.

Secretary Ho offered an emotional reflection on the solidarity observed during the crisis, noting she was moved to tears by the collective efforts of aid workers and the community. She underscored the comprehensive nature of the transitional units, which are operated by social welfare organizations and provide extensive support, including social worker assistance and psychological counseling.

Flexible Policies and Continuing Support

In a gesture of compassion, Secretary Ho announced a modification to housing regulations allowing residents to bring their pets into the transitional housing, acknowledging the animals’ importance for emotional support during stressful times.

The Housing Secretary also confirmed that the influx of fire victims would not compromise the existing supply of transitional housing. The affected population accounts for only 7% of current capacity, and the overall program includes 18,400 units, with thousands more slated for completion soon.

Meanwhile, the structural integrity of the residential block, Wang Fuk Court, is being assessed. Mr. Chan noted that the unaffected Wang Chi House within the court would be reopened once utilities and elevators are confirmed operational and safe. Reassessment is pending for the seven other buildings affected by the fire.

The government has also extended financial aid, logging over 1,800 applications for subsidies to date.

The immediate focus remains on securing long-term stability and holistic services for the victims. While officials believe it is too early to speculate on the eventual dismantling or reconstruction of the damaged buildings, Deputy Financial Secretary Chan made it clear that “all possibilities remain open,” reinforcing the government’s commitment to standing alongside the residents throughout the potentially lengthy recovery process.

HONG KONG — The Hong Kong government has successfully transitioned over 1,500 residents displaced by the devastating five-alarm fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po last week into temporary and long-term accommodation, signaling a major coordinated relief effort, officials confirmed Friday. In the wake of the catastrophic blaze that destroyed numerous homes, authorities have prioritized stable housing and comprehensive social support, offering transitionary housing options that provide indefinite, rent-free residency until permanent solutions are found.

Financial Secretary Deputy Paul Chan (Hui) and Secretary for Housing Winnie Ho acknowledged the scale of the disaster but stressed the commitment to the long-term welfare of the victims. During a radio address, Deputy Chan stated that while nine temporary shelters were initially opened, housing over 700 people at its peak, the focus has shifted to structured resettlement.

Securing Long-Term Stability

As of Thursday, approximately 1,500 affected residents have been moved into government-arranged placements, with roughly 500 individuals in short-term hotel stays and youth hostels, and about 1,000 securing spots in Transitional Housing (TH) units. This rapid relocation has allowed emergency shelter operations to largely wind down, with only about 40 individuals remaining in two remaining Tai Po shelter centers.

Deputy Chan emphasized that the government is not pressuring these remaining residents to leave, understanding some may need more time to adjust. Crucially, he underscored the stability offered by the Transitional Housing scheme.

“We have confidence that they can reside in these units effectively indefinitely—until issues like rebuilding are resolved,” Deputy Chan said. “The government will continue supporting them, and the rent-free arrangement will persist.”

These government-subsidized TH units, managed by non-governmental social service organizations, provide a full spectrum of services, including dedicated social worker support and psychological counseling, aiming to restore stability to residents’ lives.

Compassion and Social Support Crucial

Secretary Ho expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, citing the overwhelming community solidarity as a source of emotional strength. She noted visiting transitional housing projects “Lok Sin Village” and “Po Sin House” in Tai Po, where relief efforts were highly organized.

One key policy adjustment highlighted by the Secretary was the compassionate allowance for pets. Recognizing the profound emotional comfort animals provide, particularly to those who have lost so much, the standard rules were modified to permit residents to bring their companion animals into the Transitional Housing units.

Ho reported that the condition of the settled residents has shown marked improvement, noting: “At least their hearts can be at ease.”

Addressing concerns that the influx of disaster victims might strain the existing Transitional Housing supply, Secretary Ho assured the public that the affected residents account for only 7% of the current TH occupancy. Contingency units had already been allocated for emergencies, and with 18,400 TH units currently available and thousands more under construction, capacity remains sufficient.

Structural Integrity and Future Plans

While immediate relief focuses on housing the displaced, attention is also turning to the structural integrity of the damaged estate. Initial assessments indicated that two blocks, Wang Yan Court and Wang Dao Court, do not face immediate structural collapse, though some units require temporary reinforcement. Furthermore, residents of Wang Chi Court, which was untouched by the fire, are expected to return home soon, pending checks on electricity and water systems.

For the seven main blocks impacted by the fire, long-term plans remain under review. Deputy Chan cautioned against premature speculation regarding demolition or long-term reconstruction.

“It is too early to assess the long-term arrangement, and it is inadvisable to speculate,” he stated, reaffirming that the government is exploring all possibilities and will continue to walk alongside residents in the recovery process. Assistance grants have already seen widespread uptake, with over 1,800 households registering for financial aid.