Hong Kong: A massive blaze that tore through a high-rise residential complex in the Tai Po district has become the deadliest fire in Hong Kong in nearly eight decades. Authorities confirmed that at least 128 people have died, and around 200 remain unaccounted for, as rescue operations have officially ended.

On Wednesday afternoon, flames erupted at one of the towers of the eight-block Wang Fuk Court estate. The complex home to some 4,600–4,800 residents was under renovation at the time. All eight 32-storey towers were wrapped in bamboo scaffolding covered with green mesh. Within hours, the fire had jumped across multiple blocks.

The use of bamboo scaffolding and flammable mesh common in Hong Kong’s construction culture is now under intense scrutiny. Observers note how quickly the fire

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