Authority opens flats in Kwong Fuk Estate for picking up belongings

Residents from Kwong Fuk Estate, which is beside the burning Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po, have been allowed to pick up belongings from their flats since today morning, although they still have to stay out of their homes tonight.

Shek, a resident in Kwong Yau House who did not want to reveal his first name, said he only had at most 15 minutes to stay in his flat.

“If you did not leave within 15 minutes, you would be called (by the authorities),” he said. He added that he will stay at the nearby Kwong Fuk Commercial Centre tonight, where bed mattresses are provided.

Many volunteers set up supply stations and provide resources, including food, drinks and clothes, to the affected residents.

After the level five fire broke out at Wang Fuk Court yesterday, the authorities evacuated many residents in Kwong Fuk Estate. Until 8 pm today, the ongoing fire has killed at least 65 people, according to the Fire Services Department.