Hong Kong leader orders independent investigation into fire that killed 151

"In order to avoid similar tragedies again, I will set up a judge-led independent committee to examine the reason behind the cause and rapid spreading (of the fire) and related issues, Lee told reporters. We must uncover the truth, ensure that justice is served, let the deceased rest in peace and provide comfort to the living, he said. Asked by a reporter why he should continue in his job after such a disaster had unfolded in the city, Lee said reform was needed."

"The fire started last Wednesday afternoon around scaffolding that had been set up at the housing complex for maintenance work on the high-rise buildings. Authorities suspect high winds and substandard plastic mesh and insulation foam used during the renovations prompted the rapid spread of the blaze, which overwhelmed firefighting efforts. Lee said those responsible for the renovations had mixed substandard protective netting with authorised netting so as to cheat the inspection"

At least 151 people were killed and almost 80 injured when a fast-spreading fire ripped through seven tower blocks in Wang Fuk Court, a Tai Po housing complex home to over 4,600 residents. The blaze began near scaffolding used for building maintenance and is suspected to have spread rapidly because of high winds and substandard plastic mesh and insulation foam used during renovations. Authorities say renovation contractors mixed substandard protective netting with authorised netting to evade inspection. The chief executive pledged a judge-led independent committee to identify causes, pursue accountability, and reform the building renovation and inspection systems.

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