Hong Kong Residents Prepare to Return to Fire-Damaged Wang Fuk Court

Hong Kong authorities have announced plans for nearly 7,000 residents of the fire-affected Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po to return to their homes starting April 20, 2023, to retrieve personal belongings. The operation involves residents from seven blocks, with the government deploying over 1,000 personnel daily to assist in the process. Deputy Chief Secretary for Administration Cheuk Wing-hing outlined the safety measures and logistical arrangements necessary for this complex operation.

Wang Fuk Court Aftermath | Nearly 7,000 residents to return and retrieve belongings as govt deploys over 1,000 personnel daily

The government has implemented a "one household, one social worker" system to facilitate the return. Social workers will notify residents of their assigned dates and assist with pre-registration for entry into the premises. They will also provide information on safety protocols and the condition of the units, including whether any reinforcement or sealing has been performed. Residents will receive safety equipment such as hard hats, cut-resistant gloves, and masks before entering the buildings.

Wang Fuk Court Aftermath | Nearly 7,000 residents to return and retrieve belongings as govt deploys over 1,000 personnel daily

Due to the challenging conditions within the units, which include suspended water supplies and potential health hazards, authorities have advised vulnerable populations—such as the elderly, pregnant women, children, and individuals with health issues—not to return. The government has provided psychological assessment questionnaires to help residents evaluate their readiness to return.

South China Morning Post

The operation is expected to be physically demanding, particularly for those living on higher floors, as elevators are no longer operational. Residents may need to navigate 20 to 30 flights of stairs. Cheuk emphasized the importance of residents assessing their physical capabilities before attempting to retrieve their belongings. Police officers and Civil Aid Service personnel will be stationed throughout the buildings to ensure safety and assist residents during their return.

Wang Fuk Court Aftermath | Nearly 7,000 residents to return and retrieve belongings as govt deploys over 1,000 personnel daily

Cheuk Wing-hing described the operation as "highly challenging and complex," requiring meticulous coordination among various government departments, including the Police, Housing Department, and Social Welfare Department. He expressed hope for residents' cooperation to facilitate a smooth retrieval process.

Wang Fuk Court Aftermath | Nearly 7,000 residents to return and retrieve belongings as govt deploys over 1,000 personnel daily

While the government has outlined extensive safety measures, some residents have expressed concerns regarding the adequacy of support and the physical challenges posed by the operation. Critics argue that the emotional and psychological toll of returning to a fire-damaged home has not been sufficiently addressed.

South China Morning Post

• “We do not advise [elderly people], pregnant women, children, primary school students, residents with disabilities or people with poor health, especially those with heart diseases or respiratory diseases, to return home, particularly flats on higher floors,” — Hong Kong Government Notice

South China Morning Post

As the operation commences on April 20, the government will monitor the situation closely, ensuring that all safety protocols are followed and that residents receive the necessary support during their return to Wang Fuk Court.

Wang Fuk Court Aftermath | Nearly 7,000 residents to return and retrieve belongings as govt deploys over 1,000 personnel daily