Residents of blaze-hit Hong Kong building say aftermath ‘exhausting’, fear lack of security once cordon lifted
- Some tenants have resumed living in their flats, although they express fears about lack of security once cordon lifted
- Water and electricity has been restored on most floors, while lifts are still under repair
Residents of an old Hong Kong building hit by a deadly blaze earlier this week have said dealing with the aftermath of the tragedy has been “exhausting”, while expressing concerns about security once authorities lift their protective cordon.
The blaze at New Lucky House in Yau Ma Tei killed five people and injured 43 others on Wednesday. Some tenants have returned to their flats, despite the site remaining cordoned off. Water and electricity had resumed on most floors by Friday night, but lifts were still being repaired.
A 44-year-old resident surnamed Wong, who lives on the 10th floor, said on Saturday that he and his brother had returned to the building, while his wife and children were still staying at their relative’s home.
Wong, who works in the air-conditioning industry, said he had barely slept because he had to work overnight on Friday. He had also arranged for his lock to be repaired on Saturday morning. Many locks were broken during the rescue operation.
“It is very exhausting. It is physically and mentally taxing,” Wong said.
He said his home was entirely covered in ash, but he did not have time to do cleaning due to his work schedule.
