”We must comprehensively strengthen fire safety management of high-rise buildings to effectively protect people’s lives and property,” the ministry said.
Read more: Hong Kong mourns victims of blaze that killed 128 and countingThe State Council Work Safety Committee has issued a notice to local authorities launching the inspection, it said.
Chinese authorities remain sensitive to incidents affecting social stability, following a devastating blaze in China’s Xinjiang region in 2022 that killed 10 people and triggered nationwide protests amid strict COVID-19 restrictions.
The Hong Kong fire poses a major test to Beijing’s grip on the city, and Beijing is moving quickly to show that it attaches the utmost importance to the tragedy.
Read more: Hong Kong arrests three over deadly blaze, probes bamboo scaffolding
The announcement of the inspection campaign outlines four key inspection areas, including scrutiny of flammable materials used in external wall insulation systems, banned construction materials such as bamboo scaffolding, fire safety equipment, and emergency evacuation routes.
Local authorities must conduct thorough inspections and take ”immediate corrective actions” when safety hazards are identified, according to the statement.
”Strict enforcement measures will be taken against serious violations, and those failing to eliminate major safety hazards will be held accountable,” the emergency ministry said.
Also read: Hong Kong halts all election campaigning after deadly Tai Po fire
The Hong Kong fire, which started on Wednesday, rapidly engulfed seven of eight 32-storey blocks at an apartment complex undergoing renovation with bamboo scaffolding and foam insulation materials.
(Edited by : Gareema Bangad)
