Around 5 PM on June 6, a piece of concrete from the ceiling of the lobby in Kangqing Street, Kwun Hing Mansion in Tseung Kwan O, began to peel off, leading to the collapse of the entire fake ceiling, according to official reports. Fire services were immediately dispatched to the scene. While no one was reportedly trapped, the collapsed ceiling area was about 10 feet by 10 feet, causing inconvenience for residents to enter and exit the building. Multiple eyewitnesses stated that a large number of neighborhood residents gathered to look at the scene, with many firemen on standby, setting up safety barriers to prevent residents from approaching the lobby area. Due to the incident, residents had to use other entrances to return to their homes, with the welfare team providing assistance. Documentation indicates that Kwun Hing Mansion was completed in February 1972. There are visible signs of decay around the building, including rusted metal and peeled concrete. The Lands Department confirmed that they received a report from the police, and subsequently dispatched personnel to inspect the scene. They determined that although the overall structural safety of the building was not compromised, concrete and fake ceiling components were still loose. For safety reasons, the police sealed the affected area, and the building management company promptly arranged for contractors to conduct necessary inspections and remove all loose concrete and fake ceilings. As the entrance to the building required temporary closure, the management company organized alternative access routes for residents. The department will continue to work with the building owner to ensure repair work is carried out, prioritizing public safety. The department emphasized that building owners have the responsibility to ensure the safety of their properties, and timely maintenance and preservation of private buildings are fundamental duties for owners. Should building neglect result in damage to others' property or personal injury, owners may face both criminal and civil liabilities.
The incident highlights the ongoing issue of building maintenance in older residential areas, particularly in Kwun Hing's subdistrict, where many buildings show signs of age and disrepair. This case underscores the need for regular inspections and timely repairs to prevent similar incidents. Authorities and residents alike have called for stricter enforcement of building maintenance practices. Safety measures and public education on the importance of regular maintenance in ensuring community safety are crucial.