Hong Kong Orders City-Wide Removal of Scaffold Netting After Fatal Fire

Hong Kong has ordered the urgent removal of a common construction material across the city. This action follows a deadly fire that killed at least 41 people last week. Construction firms began taking down scaffold netting from buildings on Thursday. They are working to meet a government deadline this Saturday. The netting, made from plastic or nylon, can trap smoke and spread flames. The fire occurred at a building undergoing renovation in the Jordan district. It was the city's deadliest blaze in decades. Separately, officials have increased support for residents of Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po. A recent fire there damaged hundreds of homes. The government has doubled a temporary living allowance for affected households. It also promised to help them find long-term housing solutions. Contractors are now removing the scaffolding mesh at more than 200 buildings under renovation. The goal is to reduce fire risks and ease public concern.