Hong Kong Evacuation: Residents Praise Smooth Process After Bomb Find
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Hong Kong Evacuation After WWII-Era Bomb Finding
Approximately 6,000 residents and workers from 18 buildings near Pan Hoi Street in Hong Kong were evacuated on Friday, December 8, 2023, after a 1,000-pound (454 kg) World War II-era bomb was discovered during construction. Some evacuees sought temporary accommodation in hotels, while others utilized 19 shelters opened by teh Home Affairs Department.
Around 30 residents, primarily elderly individuals, found refuge at the Quarry Bay Community Hall until approximately 1:30 PM on Saturday, December 9, 2023.
Background: WWII Bombing of Hong Kong
Hong kong was a site of intense fighting during World War II,falling under Japanese occupation from December 1941 to August 1945. The territory was heavily bombed by both Japanese and Allied forces. Unexploded ordnance, such as bombs and shells, continue to be discovered during construction projects, posing a risk to public safety. The Hong Kong government maintains procedures for dealing with such discoveries, including evacuation and bomb disposal.
According to the Hong Kong Museum of Coastal Defence, the territory experienced over 18 months of Japanese occupation, and the discovery of unexploded ordnance is a recurring issue. Hong Kong Museum of Coastal Defence – WWII History
Impact on Residents and Transportation
The evacuation order substantially disrupted daily life for residents and businesses in the affected area. The closure of exits at the quarry Bay MTR station, a major transportation hub, added to the inconvenience for commuters. The Home Affairs Department’s provision of temporary shelters offered a crucial safety net for those unable to find option accommodation.
The South China Morning Post reported that the bomb was discovered during excavation work for a private residential development. South China Morning Post – WWII Bomb Discovery