Following a devastating high-rise blaze in Tai Po, Hong Kong, residents from a neighboring, unaffected building were finally granted temporary access to their homes this week, eight days after the incident. Beginning on Wednesday, December 3, authorities permitted occupants of Wang Chi Court—the tower adjacent to the fire-damaged Wang Fuk Court—to return briefly and collect vital possessions. This marked a crucial step in the recovery process, allowing families to secure necessities and address initial logistical challenges stemming from the displacement.
The limited two-day return period provided a small measure of relief for the hundreds of people displaced by the emergency. The massive fire, which struck the complex, led to the immediate evacuation of both towers and extensive safety inspections. Now, with the immediate danger passed, police secured the area while facilitating controlled entry for residents.
Emotional Returns and Essential Recoveries
Among those navigating the emotional return was Ms. Wong, a 98-year-old resident, who arrived at Wang Chi Court accompanied by her domestic helper. The immediate priority for many returning residents was securing essential medications, documents, and valuables. Social workers supporting the community outreach efforts confirmed they had also assisted residents, including Ms. Wong, in clearing perishable food items from refrigerators to prevent sanitation issues during the prolonged absence.
Ms. Wong, utilizing a wheelchair for mobility, was visibly focused on gathering necessities. She recounted a tense evacuation spurred by an urgent phone call from her daughter-in-law warning her to flee the spreading smoke. Her helper quickly assisted her down the stairs and out of the building.
The human element of these crises often centers on beloved pets, and Ms. Wong’s reunion with her companion, a Chihuahua named Lily, provided a poignant moment during the chaos. As the family exited their flat during the initial evacuation, the small dog bolted. Remarkably, Lily was later discovered waiting calmly on the ground floor, leading to a swift, emotional reunion. For the retrieval visit, Lily sat bundled alertly in a blanket on Ms. Wong’s lap.
Focus Turns to Future Housing
Currently residing at her daughter’s home, Ms. Wong acknowledged the initial panic and physical weakness she felt during the hasty withdrawal from her home, but expressed feeling much better now that initial safety concerns were addressed.
The ultimate desire for many residents remains a stable return to normalcy. Ms. Wong articulated the pervasive sentiment of the displaced community: her only wish is for the administrative and safety assessments to conclude swiftly so she can move back into her own flat.
The staged return to Wang Chi Court represents the first phase of complex recovery operations managed by Tai Po district officials and the police. While Wang Fuk Court faces a lengthy period of assessment and potential structural repair due to the direct fire damage, residents of the unaffected Wang Chi Court are now focused on understanding when permanent re-occupancy will be possible. Authorities are working with social services to ensure continuous support, including temporary housing assistance, counseling, and logistical aid, as the community attempts to recover from the unexpected disruption.
Key Takeaways for Displaced Residents:
- Prioritize Medications: Retrieve prescription drugs immediately during the access period.
- Secure Documents: Collect essential identification, insurance papers, and financial records.
- Utilize Support Services: Contact assigned social workers for aid in addressing health, housing, and food perishability issues.