Tai Po housing estate fire in Hong Kong ^{CEFR B2}

On 26 November a large fire swept through the Tai Po housing estate in Hong Kong, destroying seven of its eight residential blocks. Investigators say foam boards and substandard scaffolding nets used during a long-running renovation helped the blaze spread rapidly. At least 160 people died and six remain missing; ten of the dead were migrant domestic workers, nine from Indonesia and one from the Philippines.

Rescuers reported chaotic scenes as alarms failed and smoke filled stairwells. They found some helpers still caring for their employers. One helper, Sri Wahyuni, 42, was found embracing her 93-year-old employer and was later confirmed dead by DNA testing. She had been the sole breadwinner for three children, the youngest aged six. Another survivor, Vame Mariz Wayas Verador, a Filipino who saved a toddler and a grandmother, has had her contract terminated and is staying in a shelter.

Humanitarian groups and social workers are assisting affected workers; Johannie Tong said around 90 domestic workers are receiving help. The government announced about HKD 800,000 in total compensation per family, including more than HKD 500,000 in statutory payments and HKD 250,000 in aid. Groups at the site call for faster repatriation of remains, clearer guidance on compensation and medical claims, and changes to short-notice departure rules. Avril Rodrigues said long-term coordination with the Labour Department and immigration authorities is needed to ensure legal protections and ongoing support for survivors and bereaved families.