The aftermath of the devastating fire at Hong Kong’s Marco Polo Residences (宏福苑) continues to unfold, with a significant development announced on April 28, 2026: a smooth operation is underway for residents of the H Block (宏志閣) to return to their units and collect belongings. This follows a government decision to extend the acquisition scheme, initially offered to residents of the buildings directly impacted by the fire, to include those in H Block, contingent upon a 75% acceptance rate from homeowners. The move, involving a substantial government commitment, aims to address the complex needs and anxieties of residents grappling with the trauma and uncertainty following the blaze.
The Marco Polo Residences fire, which broke out in November 2023, caused widespread damage, and displacement. While buildings A through G were deemed structurally compromised and subject to government acquisition, H Block, having escaped the direct impact of the flames, was initially excluded from the scheme. However, mounting pressure from residents, coupled with the complexities of renovating H Block, prompted a reassessment. The government, led by officials including Deputy Chief Secretary for Administration卓永兴 (Cheuk Wing-hing), Deputy Financial Secretary 黄伟纶 (Wong Wai-lun), and Secretary for Housing 何永贤 (Ho Wing-yin), has now offered a pathway for H Block residents to participate in the acquisition plan, mirroring the terms offered to those in the affected buildings.
Addressing Resident Concerns and the Acquisition Scheme
According to Deputy Financial Secretary Wong Wai-lun, approximately 77% of H Block residents have expressed preliminary interest in joining the acquisition scheme. This shift in sentiment stems from a multitude of concerns voiced by homeowners. These include the uncertainty surrounding the timeline for repairs and reoccupation, the complexities of dealing with property deeds and building management revisions, the potential costs associated with hiring contractors and managing repairs, and anxieties about property value depreciation and future resale difficulties. Perhaps most poignantly, many residents have expressed lingering psychological trauma from the fire and a reluctance to return to the site. The government’s decision to extend the acquisition scheme is a direct response to these deeply felt concerns.
The acquisition scheme itself involves a significant financial commitment from the government. Initially, HK$6.8 billion was allocated for the acquisition of the seven buildings affected by the fire. Extending the scheme to H Block will require additional funding, the exact amount of which will depend on the final number of participating homeowners. The government has emphasized its commitment to a fair and reasonable process, acknowledging the private property rights of residents while also recognizing the need for a comprehensive and efficient resolution. The deadline for homeowners to submit their acceptance of the acquisition offer is June 30, 2026.
Logistical Challenges and Government Support
The logistical undertaking of allowing residents to return to H Block to collect belongings is substantial. The government has mobilized approximately 1,000 personnel to support the operation, ensuring a safe and orderly process. Residents are being allowed access in phases, with specific time slots allocated to each unit. The process is designed to allow residents sufficient time to retrieve essential items and personal belongings, while also minimizing disruption and maintaining security.
Chen Man-zhou, a government official involved in the operation, highlighted the government’s dedication to a thoughtful and responsible approach. He stated that the arrangements have been carefully considered and implemented to ensure the well-being of residents. The government is also addressing concerns about the condition of some units, where belongings have been inadvertently mixed with those of neighbors. 卓永兴 (Cheuk Wing-hing) has issued an apology for this issue and pledged to provide assistance in sorting and clearing the affected units.
The Complexities of H Block’s Restoration
While the acquisition scheme offers a resolution for many residents, the possibility of restoring H Block remains a complex undertaking. Wong Wai-lun noted that the restoration process is proving to be more challenging than initially anticipated. Approximately two-thirds of the building’s exterior walls remain incomplete, and significant repairs are required to the fire safety systems, electrical infrastructure, central gas supply, and emergency vehicle access routes. The likelihood of completing all these repairs within the current year is considered extremely low. The government is prioritizing a balanced approach, considering both the emotional needs of residents and the practical realities of the restoration process.
A Firefighter’s Sacrifice and Ongoing Investigations
Amidst the ongoing efforts to support residents, the memory of firefighter 何伟豪 (Ho Wai-ho), who tragically lost his life battling the Marco Polo Residences fire, remains deeply felt. Recent testimony at the independent inquiry into the fire revealed further details surrounding the circumstances of his death. According to evidence presented on April 23, 2026, 何伟豪’s breathing apparatus was functioning correctly, but his personal alarm device (“Guardian”) and gas cylinder were damaged, with the cylinder registering zero pressure.
Fire Services Department Divisional Fire Officer (Breathing Apparatus) 董永基 (Dong Yong-ji) described the damage to the equipment as “very rare.” Crucially, the “red key” – the transmitter lock for the firefighter locator system – was still inserted into the device, indicating that 何伟豪 had not followed standard entry procedures and had not handed the key to the incident commander before entering the building. Previous testimony had already revealed that an incident commander had not been established before 何伟豪 entered the building. The inquiry continues to investigate the events leading up to the firefighter’s death, seeking to understand the factors that contributed to this tragic loss.
Adding to the poignant details, a recent account shared by the wife of a wheelchair-bound resident highlighted 何伟豪’s selfless actions during the evacuation. She recounted how he personally assisted her husband, expressing deep gratitude for his kindness and bravery. This personal story underscores the human cost of the fire and the courage displayed by first responders.
Looking Ahead
The situation at Marco Polo Residences remains fluid, with the government continuing to navigate the complex challenges of supporting displaced residents, managing the acquisition scheme, and investigating the causes of the fire. The next key milestone is the June 30, 2026 deadline for H Block residents to accept the acquisition offer. The government has pledged to provide ongoing updates and support to residents throughout this process.
For those seeking more information about the Marco Polo Residences fire and the government’s response, resources are available through the Hong Kong government’s official website and various news outlets covering the story. Residents and concerned citizens are encouraged to stay informed and engage in constructive dialogue as the situation continues to evolve.
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