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The city's chief executive, John Lee, has directed the formation of an independent committee to examine the reasons of a tragic inferno that claimed the lives of 151 people.

A Fire of Historic Proportions

This past Wednesday, the majority of the tower blocks at the estate—that was in the midst of significant upgrades—were consumed by a blaze. Authorities later discovered that construction site netting installed on the buildings fell short of fire safety regulations.

No fewer than 13 people have been taken into custody over potential negligent homicide, comprising the directors of a building firm.

"It is a terrible tragedy, it is a major blaze. Yes, we need reform. Failures have been detected in multiple areas. Hence we must respond rigorously to ensure that all these loopholes are addressed," he said.

Investigation and Aftermath

The fire—advancing with speed both upwards and across the separate towers—was not completely extinguished by the morning of Friday, approximately two days after it ignited, and took in excess of 2,000 fire service personnel to bring under control.

On that day, authorities started accessing the buildings to secure proof. The government indicates the investigation could require approximately a month.

Shortcomings Uncovered

Multiple inhabitants have said they were not alerted by a fire alarm when the fire started. Local firefighters determined that warning systems in all eight blocks were operating inadequately.

The city's construction authority has halted for now renovation projects on 30 private projects.

Demands for Probe and Detentions

Additionally, authorities are said to have arrested a young man on allegations of sedition on Saturday. He was involved with a gathering demanding an independent inquiry into the tragedy. An digital signature drive collected over 10,000 supporters in a very short time before its page was taken down.

A pair of additional persons, among them a ex-local representative, were also questioned by police, per news outlets.

Global Response

The human rights organization and Another watchdog have both condemned the said apprehensions.

"This is the occasion for the city's officials to openly examine the origins of the tragic incident...rather than silencing those who ask legitimate questions," stated the organization.

Historical Context and Demographics

Wang Fuk Court was constructed in 1983 and had offered 1,984 apartments for around 4,600 inhabitants, based on a 2021 government census.

Approximately 40 percent of its residents are estimated to be over 65 years of age. Several have lived in the public housing complex since its construction.

The city's second-worst blaze on record killed 176 people in 1948 and was the result of a blast on the lower level at a commercial building. The deadliest was at a sporting venue in 1918, when more than 600 attendees died.