Hong Kong authorities have announced plans to buy back residential units destroyed or rendered unsafe by a deadly high-rise fire, as officials seek to accelerate recovery efforts and provide financial relief to affected homeowners.

The blaze, which swept through an ageing multi-storey building in a densely populated district, resulted in multiple fatalities and injuries, prompting a large-scale emergency response.

Firefighters battled intense flames and heavy smoke for hours before bringing the situation under control.

Subsequent inspections found extensive structural damage to several flats, with some units deemed uninhabitable.

In response, the government said it intends to purchase the most severely affected properties at assessed market value.

Officials described the proposed buyback as a pragmatic solution to help residents avoid prolonged uncertainty over rebuilding costs, insurance disputes or complex redevelopment procedures.

Authorities stated that detailed terms, including valuation mechanisms and eligibility criteria, will be finalised in consultation with owners and relevant agencies.

The initiative is expected to operate alongside existing disaster relief funds and temporary housing arrangements already offered to displaced families.

Social services departments have arranged interim accommodation and emergency financial assistance, while counselling support has been made available for survivors and relatives of victims.

Investigators continue to examine the cause of the fire, including potential issues related to building maintenance, fire safety systems and compliance with regulations.

Urban safety experts say the incident has renewed scrutiny of ageing residential blocks across the city, many of which were constructed decades ago under different regulatory standards.

Lawmakers have indicated that broader reviews of fire safety enforcement and building renewal policies may follow.

Officials emphasised that the buyback plan aims to provide certainty for residents while ensuring public safety, as Hong Kong confronts the immediate human impact of the tragedy and the longer-term challenges of urban renewal.