Hong kong: The death toll from a fire at a Wong Fu Court condominium in Hong Kong on Wednesday has risen to at least 159, as authorities ordered the removal of all reconstruction netting in Hong Kong buildings from this weekend.

According to Thai News Agency, Hong Kong police reported late on Monday that the death toll has increased to at least 159, as investigators continue to uncover more bodies, some found on rooftops and fire escapes, while others have been reduced to ashes. The deceased include 49 men and 91 women, with ages ranging from one year old to 97 years old. Out of the total fatalities, 140 have been identified, while 31 individuals remain unaccounted for.

The police are continuing their search inside the burned building, having searched five of the seven structures so far. A total of 33 people have been arrested, with 21 suspected of manslaughter and 12 others possibly involved in corruption.

Meanwhile, the Hong Kong Development Authority has mandated the removal of all scaffolding netting used in the renovation of high-rise buildings from this weekend, citing low-quality plastic netting and insulation foam as factors that contributed to the rapid spread of the fire. New guidelines for testing scaffolding materials are expected to be announced next week. This order will impact around 300 buildings across Hong Kong, with more than 200 private and 10 government buildings currently undergoing renovation.

In another development, the Hong Kong government has confirmed that the Legislative Council elections will proceed as scheduled this Sunday, despite concerns about voter turnout amid public panic over the massive fire incidents.