Urgent Investigation Launched After Hong Kong’s Deadliest Fire
UPDATE: A devastating fire in Hong Kong’s Tai Po District on October 25, 2023, has prompted an urgent investigation into the use of bamboo scaffolding, a centuries-old construction method. The blaze, which is now being classified as the city’s deadliest fire in years, has raised serious concerns about safety standards and construction practices in one of the world’s most densely populated urban areas.
The fire erupted in a residential complex undergoing renovations, engulfing the structure in flames and smoke. Authorities have arrested three individuals associated with a construction company believed to be negligent in maintaining safety protocols. At the time of the incident, the building was surrounded by bamboo scaffolding, a material praised for its flexibility and cost-effectiveness but now criticized for its flammability.
Xinyan Huang, an associate professor from Hong Kong Polytechnic University, emphasized the risks, stating, “Bamboo is definitely a flammable material. This is a very dry season in Hong Kong, so the likelihood of ignition is very high.” The bamboo scaffolding allows fires to spread rapidly due to its vertical design, creating a “highway” for flames to travel upward.
Authorities are also examining other construction materials used at the site, including polystyrene boards found blocking windows, which may have contributed to the fire’s intensity. John Lee, the Chief Executive of Hong Kong, announced that a task force will investigate whether the building’s exterior met fire-retardant standards. “If there’s any wrongdoing, we’ll pursue accountability in accordance with laws and regulations,” he asserted.
This tragic incident has reignited discussions around the safety of bamboo scaffolding, which has been a hallmark of Hong Kong architecture for over 2,000 years. Official statistics reveal that there have been 24 deaths related to bamboo scaffolding from January 2018 to August 2025. In March, the Development Bureau mandated that 50% of new public building projects must now utilize metal scaffolding to enhance worker safety and align with modern construction standards.
The fire’s occurrence has drawn widespread attention on social media, with hashtags such as “Why Hong Kong still uses bamboo scaffolding” trending on Weibo. Many users are urging the government to reconsider the use of this traditional material, especially after mainland China banned bamboo scaffolding in 2022 due to safety concerns.
Despite its risks, the cultural significance of bamboo scaffolding cannot be overlooked. Locals argue that it represents a vital part of Hong Kong’s heritage.
“The technique is a cultural heritage that needs to be maintained,”
said a local construction worker. “We have stringent regulations that ensure safety.”
While the investigation is ongoing, experts warn that the focus should not solely be on the fire’s ignition source but also on the broader implications of how quickly flames spread across multiple buildings. Similar to the Grenfell Tower disaster in London, the design and external factors played a critical role in this tragedy.
As the city grapples with this crisis, the urgency for reform in construction practices has never been more pronounced. Officials continue to assess the implications of this incident, urging the public to remain vigilant as they await further developments.
For residents and workers in Hong Kong, the outcome of this investigation could redefine not just building practices but also the landscape of safety in their bustling city. Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
