Central’s Chinachem Tower Declared Structurally Safe After Scaffolding Fire Injures Four

A major fire erupted at Chinachem Tower in Hong Kong’s Central district on Saturday, October 18, 2025, sending plumes of smoke through the busy business area and prompting a large-scale emergency response. Despite the intensity of the blaze, which tore through the building’s exterior scaffolding, the Buildings Department has confirmed that the structure remains safe, with no major damage detected.

A massive fire erupted around 4:24 p.m. at Chinachem Tower on Connaught Road Central, quickly engulfing the bamboo scaffolding surrounding the skyscraper. Witnesses saw flames racing up the façade as debris rained onto the street. Firefighters battled the blaze for nearly five hours, bringing it under control by 9:13 p.m. Four people were hospitalized with burns and smoke inhalation as investigators probe the cause of the fire.

The Buildings Department said Sunday that Chinachem Tower remains structurally sound after inspection, though loose façade materials require removal. All scaffolding and renovation materials met safety standards, but officials launched a follow-up fire safety investigation.

Fire expert Leung Kam-tak suggested sparks from welding or a discarded cigarette may have ignited plastic tarpaulin, fueling the blaze. The incident renewed scrutiny of scaffolding safety, prompting calls for stricter fire prevention in Hong Kong’s renovation projects.