A profound wave of national solidarity has swept across China as citizens and institutions rally behind Hong Kong following the catastrophic residential tower fire that has left 146 people dead. The devastating blaze at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po has triggered an unprecedented response from mainland compatriots, businesses, and government entities alike, all demonstrating swift support for relief operations and victim assistance.
Financial support has reached remarkable levels, with relief funds totaling HK$1.1 billion (approximately $141.3 million) mobilized through a combination of governmental allocations and corporate philanthropy. According to Cheuk Wing-hing, Deputy Chief Secretary for Administration of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government, HK$800 million originated from donations by dozens of major listed companies and charitable foundations nationwide, while HK$300 million was allocated through government grants.
The People’s Bank of China has implemented special financial measures to facilitate cross-border support, establishing a dedicated ‘green lane’ for renminbi donations originating from the mainland. This expedited processing system ensures immediate transfer of funds to recipient accounts in Hong Kong, accelerating critical search and rescue operations, medical treatment for the injured, and comprehensive relief efforts.
Hong Kong’s leadership, led by Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu, joined principal officials and civil servants in a solemn memorial service at government headquarters on Saturday. The ceremony featured flags flown at half-staff and a three-minute silence observed by all present officials in honor of those lost in the tragedy.
The HKSAR government has announced a three-day mourning period during which condolence points will be established across all 18 districts of the city. These designated areas will allow members of the public to express their sympathies through condolence books and participate in collective mourning activities for the victims of one of Hong Kong’s most devastating residential fires in recent history.