VANCOUVER — Canadians with connections to Hong Kong are grappling with the aftermath of a devastating fire that swept through seven high-rise towers in the region, resulting in numerous fatalities and many individuals reported missing. The blaze, which erupted in the Tai Po district, has left at least 44 people dead and approximately 280 unaccounted for.

Albert Wai Yip Chan, a Vancouver resident and former member of Hong Kong's Legislative Council, expressed his concerns about fire safety in the city's tall buildings. He noted that many structures lack adequate sprinkler systems, which has long been a worry. Chan has been following the unfolding tragedy through online videos that depict flames and thick smoke engulfing the buildings. "I wish (the) injured people could have a speedy recovery," Chan said. "It’s a tragedy. We hope the government can improve its property management policy. Otherwise, I believe this type of problem will keep occurring again and again."

The fire began on Wednesday afternoon, quickly escalating to a level-5 emergency, the highest severity rating in Hong Kong. Firefighters faced challenging conditions, including falling debris and high temperatures inside the buildings, complicating rescue efforts. Derek Armstrong Chan, deputy director of Fire Service operations, highlighted the dangers posed to first responders, stating, "Besides, the temperature inside the buildings concerned is very high. It’s quite difficult for us to enter the building and go upstairs to conduct firefighting and rescue operations."

The incident is being compared to the Garley Building fire in 1996, which resulted in 41 deaths and many injuries. Aiken Lau, a former banker from Hong Kong now living in Coquitlam, B.C., recalled the emotional impact of that tragedy. "I left very heartbroken when I first saw the news. Although I have been away from Hong Kong for more than 20 years, I still have strong feelings for the city, and I hate to see people there suffering in pain. I hope the missing people could be found as soon as possible."

Authorities reported that the fire originated in external bamboo scaffolding on a 32-story tower and spread rapidly due to windy conditions. Lau expressed concern over the speed at which the flames spread and the potential for the death toll to rise further. He noted, "When I dug into the history of deadly fires in Hong Kong, the fire that occurred in Sham Shui Po in 1962 is the worst one, which has killed 44 people and left hundreds of people homeless. I am extremely worried that the latest fire might break the record of 1962. It’s devastating."

Chak Au, a Conservative member of Parliament, also shared his sorrow over the incident. Au, who previously worked at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, stated that the location of the fire is close to his former workplace. He extended his condolences to those who lost loved ones, including a firefighter who died while responding to the blaze. "My heartfelt condolences to all who lost loved ones — including the firefighter who died in the line of duty — and my thoughts are with the injured and the many families still waiting for news of the missing," Au said.

John Lee, Hong Kong’s chief executive, announced that the situation is gradually improving and a comprehensive investigation has been initiated. Reports indicate that police have arrested three men on suspicion of manslaughter related to the fire. As the community mourns, many are left hoping for a swift resolution to the ongoing crisis and for the safety of those still unaccounted for.