Tai Po fire inquiry: hard-hitting report on tragedy set to be released

The Hong Kong government is poised to unveil a fiercely critical report by an independent inquiry into the city's worst fire disaster in decades, which claimed the lives of 168 residents in Tai Po. Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu is expected to announce the findings alongside senior officials, outlining the administration's plans for systemic reforms in response to the tragedy.

Sources indicate that one or more top officials may face accountability within the report, which is slated for release just 11 months after the incident. The report is anticipated to place blame on the main contractor for the Tai Po renovations, the project consultant, and an inspector for their alleged involvement in the disaster.

Additionally, it is likely to hold four government departments responsible for their roles in the tragedy. According to preliminary reports, the judge-led committee will likely criticize the Housing Bureau's Independent Checking Unit for failing to adequately oversee the renovation work at the affected housing estate. Other government bodies slated for criticism include the Fire Services Department, the Buildings Department, and the Labour Department.

In addition to assigning blame, the government is also expected to introduce legislation to criminalize bid-rigging and overhaul the supervision of engineering and renovation contractors. To monitor the progress of these reforms, a high-level steering committee led by the chief secretary will be established.