Deadly Hong Kong Fire Ignites Debate Over Ancient Bamboo Scaffolding Safety

Summary

A tragic fire in Hong Kong’s Tai Po district has reignited a fierce debate over one of the city’s most iconic traditions: bamboo scaffolding. Following the deadliest blaze in decades at the Wang Fuk Court housing estate on Wednesday, authorities and safety experts are critically examining whether this 2,000-year-old construction technique remains viable for a modern, densely packed metropolis.

While the specific cause of the inferno remains under investigation, police have arrested three individuals connected to a construction firm for “gross negligence.” Fire safety experts warn that while bamboo is celebrated for its sustainability and flexibility, it presents significant risks during the dry season. When aligned vertically on high-rises, bamboo scaffolding safety becomes a critical concern, as the structure can effectively act as a “highway” for flames, allowing fire to bypass internal suppression systems and spread rapidly up the building’s exterior.

In response to the disaster, Hong Kong leader John Lee announced immediate citywide inspections of all bamboo structures. Government officials are now discussing a potential shift toward metal scaffolding—a move already implemented in mainland China. However, this proposal faces resistance from locals who view the craft as essential cultural heritage.

Preliminary investigations suggest that non-compliant materials, such as flammable polystyrene boards found blocking windows, may have exacerbated the spread. As the city mourns, the government faces the difficult task of balancing modern safety regulations with the preservation of a unique architectural craft that has defined the Hong Kong skyline for generations.

Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/11/27/world/bamboo-scaffolding-scrutiny-hong-kong-fire-intl-hnk