A dramatic fire broke out at Chinachem Tower in Hong Kong’s Central district on Saturday afternoon, sending thick smoke across one of the city’s busiest business areas and triggering a large emergency response.

The blaze began around 4:24 p.m., rapidly spreading through the bamboo scaffolding surrounding the building during renovation work. Witnesses reported flames climbing the exterior as debris fell onto the street below.

Firefighters worked for nearly five hours to contain the fire, finally bringing it under control just after 9:00 p.m. Four people were taken to hospital with burns and smoke inhalation.

Following an inspection, Hong Kong’s Buildings Department confirmed that the tower remains structurally sound, with no major damage to the main structure. However, officials noted that some exterior materials must be removed as a precaution.

Authorities confirmed that all scaffolding and renovation materials complied with safety standards. A separate fire safety investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the blaze.

Fire safety expert Leung Kam-tak suggested the fire may have been triggered by sparks from welding work or a discarded cigarette igniting plastic tarpaulin.

The incident has renewed discussion about scaffolding fire risks during renovation projects, with experts calling for tighter preventive measures across Hong Kong.

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