Following a recent residential blaze, Hong Kong’s Housing Department moved quickly this week to counter misleading social media reports concerning the immediate accommodation provided to those displaced. The Department issued a formal statement on Tuesday, December 3, clarifying that online claims suggesting affected residents of the Wang Fuk Court fire in Tai Po were relocated to completely empty, interim housing units are unfounded.
The fire, which occurred recently in the Tai Po district, resulted in the temporary displacement of several residents. Amidst the recovery efforts, various rumors began circulating on platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp, particularly alleging that the temporary housing solutions offered by the government left victims sleeping on bare floors without furnishings.
However, a departmental spokesperson assured the public that these online comments are “not based on fact.” Crucially, the statement confirmed that, as of the current date, no affected Wang Fuk Court residents are presently residing in interim housing units supervised by the Housing Department. This suggests that alternative, more suitable short-term arrangements, perhaps with family, friends, or other types of temporary shelter, have been secured for those impacted.
Official Guidance and Support Services
The swift public rejection of the rumors serves to maintain trust in government disaster response efforts and prevent unnecessary public anxiety. The Housing Department emphasized the importance of relying on verified official sources for information and urged the community to disregard the misleading commentary circulating online.
For residents who sustained damage or displacement following the Wang Fuk Court incident, official avenues for support remain open:
- Transitional Housing Applications: Individuals affected and wishing to apply for long-term transitional housing managed by the Housing Bureau should contact 3611 8482. This program is designed to provide stable, medium-term shelter while permanent housing solutions are arranged.
- Interim Housing/Transit Centre Enquiries: For specific questions concerning the Housing Department’s official interim housing facilities and transit centres, the public can call 2658 4430.
This incident underscores the challenge authorities face in mitigating the spread of misinformation during public crises, highlighting the necessity of prompt, clear communication to ensure affected citizens and the broader public receive accurate and helpful guidance.
The Housing Department continues to monitor the situation and connect displaced residents with appropriate resources, focusing on the swift transition back to safe, stable living arrangements.