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The city's chief executive, John Lee, has directed the formation of an independent committee to investigate the cause of a catastrophic blaze that killed at least 151 individuals.

A Blaze of Unprecedented Scale

On Wednesday last week, most of the tower blocks at the estate—which was subject to significant upgrades—were consumed by a blaze. A probe subsequently revealed that protective netting installed on the buildings failed to meet flame retardant standards.

At least 13 people have been detained on suspicion of alleged culpable homicide, comprising the directors of a building firm.

"This is indeed a tragedy, it is a big fire. Yes, we need reform. We have uncovered shortcomings in multiple areas. That is exactly why we must take decisive action to ensure that all these gaps are eliminated," remarked Mr. Lee.

Investigation and Aftermath

The blaze—advancing with speed both vertically and across the separate towers—was finally put out by the morning of Friday, approximately two days after it started, and necessitated in excess of 2,000 fire service personnel to bring under control.

On that day, police began entering the buildings to secure proof. The government indicates the probe could last three to four weeks.

Systemic Failures Identified

Several residents have reported they failed to hear a fire alarm when the fire broke out. The city's fire department found that detection devices in all eight blocks were operating inadequately.

Hong Kong's buildings department has halted for now construction activities on 30 private projects.

Calls for Inquiry and Arrests

Additionally, police reportedly detained a young man on charges related to incitement on the weekend. He was involved with a group petitioning for an independent inquiry into the tragedy. An digital signature drive collected more than 10,000 endorsements in under 24 hours before its contents were wiped.

Another two individuals, among them a past council member, were also detained by officers, per local media reports.

Global Response

Amnesty International and Another watchdog have both condemned the reported arrests.

"Now is the time for the city's officials to thoroughly and publicly probe the origins of the devastating fire...instead of muzzling those who pose valid inquiries," stated the organization.

Historical Context and Demographics

The housing estate was completed in the early 1980s and had supplied close to 2,000 units for some 4,600 occupants, based on a recent official survey.

Approximately 40 percent of its inhabitants are estimated to be at least 65 years old. A number have been occupants of the government-supported development from its inception.

Hong Kong's second-worst blaze on file claimed 176 lives in the mid-20th century and was the result of a blast on the lower level at a multi-story storage facility. The worst was at Happy Valley Racecourse in 1918, when more than 600 attendees perished.