China has announced a sweeping nationwide inspection of fire-safety standards in high-rise buildings, just days after a devastating fire in Hong Kong claimed at least 128 lives. The Ministry of Emergency Management said on Saturday that authorities across the mainland must immediately step up oversight to prevent any similar disaster.
The ministry said special attention will be given to buildings undergoing external wall renovations, interior modifications, and the use of flammable insulation materials—factors suspected to have worsened the Hong Kong tragedy. Inspectors will also scrutinise banned construction elements such as bamboo scaffolding, along with fire-fighting equipment and evacuation routes.
“We must comprehensively strengthen fire-safety management of high-rise buildings to effectively protect people’s lives and property,” the ministry said in its statement.
The State Council Work Safety Committee has issued a formal notice directing all provincial and local governments to begin the inspection immediately and initiate corrective action wherever hazards are found. Officials warned that strict enforcement measures will be taken, and those who fail to fix major safety risks will be held accountable.
The move reflects Beijing’s heightened sensitivity to incidents that could trigger public concern or unrest. A deadly fire in Xinjiang in 2022—during stringent COVID-19 restrictions—sparked rare nationwide protests. With the Hong Kong blaze stirring shock and grief across the region, Beijing is moving quickly to demonstrate urgency and control.
Authorities in Hong Kong have already arrested multiple people linked to the blaze, including individuals tied to improper bamboo scaffolding work, as investigations continue.
