In the aftermath of the devastating five-alarm Wang Fuk Court fire in Tai Po, Hong Kong, the central Chinese government mobilized coordinated relief efforts, demonstrating swift support for the affected region. Responding to requests from the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government, the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office (HKMAO) facilitated emergency assistance from Guangdong Province. This aid, which included critical rescue equipment, medical supplies, and consumables, was transferred to Hong Kong on Thursday evening and Friday morning, just days after the tragic blaze that caused extensive casualties.
Immediate Solidarity and Support Activation
The coordination aligned with directives from General Secretary Xi Jinping, emphasizing a rapid, unified response. As the community continues to grapple with the disaster—with families gathering at the Kwong Fuk Estate Community Hall to identify lost loved ones and the public laying tributes in mournful solidarity—official entities highlighted the collective effort.
In a signed commentary released Friday, the HKMAO characterized the response as a display of powerful rescue capabilities rooted in compassion and solidarity. The support network stretched from the central authorities in Beijing through HKSAR government agencies down to local civil society groups, involving assistance flowing from the mainland to Hong Kong. The commentary affirmed that with the strength of the mainland as its foundation, the HKSAR Government, invoking the “Lion Rock spirit,” would unite all sectors to effectively manage relief and guide the city through the crisis.
High-Level Officials Offer Condolences
Demonstrating the mainland’s direct commitment, high-ranking officials visited the affected areas and hospitals. On Thursday morning, Zhou Ji, deputy director of the HKMAO and director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government (LOCPG), alongside fellow deputy director Nong Rong, visited the Tai Po community center and Prince of Wales Hospital. They met with injured residents and affected individuals, while also recognizing the tireless efforts of medical staff, police officers, and volunteers involved in the rescue operation.
Mr. Zhou conveyed profound condolences on behalf of President Xi and the central authorities, specifically mourning the deceased, including a firefighter who perished while on duty. He also extended sincere sympathies to the bereaved families and the injured.
Future Support and Community Resilience
During his visit, Mr. Zhou expressed confidence in the HKSAR Government’s ongoing efforts. He stressed the importance of sparing no effort in locating missing persons, treating the wounded, arranging accommodation and support for displaced residents, and swiftly determining the cause of the fire.
He reiterated the central government’s standing commitment to fully support Hong Kong’s requirements in firefighting, rescue operations, and patient care. The officials stressed faith in the fortitude and resilience of the Hong Kong people, anticipating their unity in overcoming the adversity. The immediate deployment of mainland resources underscores the central government’s mechanism for providing rapid, coordinated backing to Hong Kong during major emergencies. This collective approach aims to hasten recovery and reinforce the security and well-being of the region.
Resources for Affected Residents:
- Community Support: Contact local district offices for relief registration.
- Medical Assistance: Prince of Wales Hospital and local clinics are providing critical care.
- Donations: Check HKSAR official channels for verified philanthropic organizations aiding the fire victims.