The fire began during renovation work in a 35-storey tower. Bamboo scaffolding caught the flames quickly and turned the area into a giant fireball. The blaze then moved to six nearby high-rises within minutes. Thick smoke filled the air, and thousands of residents ran down staircases to survive.

More than 55 people lost their lives. Over 250 people remain unaccounted for, and over a thousand residents are receiving treatment for burns and smoke inhalation. Many families in Hong Kong are still searching for their missing loved ones.

The incident revived Hong Kong fire safety fears in many Indian cities, especially in Odisha. Residents say that cramped interiors, blocked exits, poor wiring, and weak enforcement make many buildings unsafe. Fire experts in Odisha now demand stricter rules, routine checks, and safer renovation practices to prevent a similar tragedy.

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