Hong Kong High-Rise Fire: 13 Dead, 15 Injured in 31-Story Residential Tower Blaze

Islamabad (Qudrat Daily) — A massive fire broke out in a **31-story residential tower** in Tai Po, Hong Kong, engulfing the area in thick black smoke and causing widespread panic.

According to international news agencies, the residential complex houses **at least 2,000 apartments**. The fire was so intense that authorities raised the fire alert to **level five**, the highest emergency level in Hong Kong.

Firefighters used ladders and cherry pickers to battle the flames, during which **more than five personnel were injured**. After roughly an hour of strenuous efforts, the fire was brought under control.

During rescue operations, **at least nine bodies were recovered**, while **four of the 19 injured later died in the hospital**, bringing the death toll to **13**, with **15 others injured**. Two of the hospitalized victims are in critical condition, raising concerns about further casualties.

No official statement has yet been released regarding the cause of the fire. However, parts of the building reportedly had **bamboo scaffolding**, which has been linked to multiple fire incidents in Hong Kong this year.

The **Transport Department** announced that a section of **Tai Po Road** was completely closed due to the fire, with buses redirected to alternative routes to ensure public safety.

Authorities continue rescue and relief operations as investigations into the fire’s cause are underway.