Quarry Bay bomb defused: residents return as normalcy resumes

After a successful operation, Hong Kong police successfully neutralized a wartime bomb discovered at a construction site in Quarry Bay, enabling thousands of evacuated residents to return to their homes and restoring normalcy to the area.

Bomb neutralized and roads reopened

At 11.48am, the police completed the delicate task of defusing a wartime bomb containing approximately 500 pounds of explosives, which was fully incinerated during the operation. 

Following the successful disposal, all roads in the vicinity that had been closed for safety were reopened by midday. 

This allowed the resumption of regular traffic and public transport services, including tram operations, which had been temporarily halted.

Residents return to their homes

Approximately 6,000 residents from around 1,900 households in the area had been evacuated the previous evening as a precaution. 

By early afternoon, residents began returning to their homes, with many expressing relief at the swift resolution. 

Community support teams assisted, particularly elderly residents, in returning to their buildings, providing supplies such as blankets and food distributed at temporary shelters. 

Residents of buildings like Chung Hing Mansion and Kam Hoi Mansion noted the effective organization of the evacuation and return process, with some pleasantly surprised at being able to return home earlier than anticipated.

Impact on local businesses

The temporary closure of streets, including parts of Pan Hoi Street, affected local businesses, particularly restaurants. 

A manager of a nearby barbecue restaurant mentioned that the establishment had to close abruptly at noon the previous day and only reopened at 2pm after the roads were cleared. 

While the closure impacted business, the manager emphasized that safety was the priority and praised the authorities for their efficient handling of the situation.

Temporary shelters support evacuated residents

The Home and Youth Affairs Bureau reported that 19 temporary shelters were set up to accommodate nearly 450 displaced residents. 

These shelters operated smoothly, with community halls providing essential supplies like food and warm clothing. 

At Quarry Bay Community Hall, which housed around 60 people at its peak, residents appreciated the support from community teams and local councilors. 

However, some reported initial confusion during the evacuation and concerns about prolonged displacement. 

One resident highlighted the difficulty of sleeping in the community hall but acknowledged the provision of adequate supplies.

Challenges for pet owners and some residents

Certain challenges emerged during the evacuation. Pet owners faced difficulties as most community halls initially did not allow animals, though authorities later designated a specific hall for residents with pets. 

Some residents expressed frustration over the slow response to this need.

Additionally, a few individuals, including one who spent the night outside a tenement building near Quarry Bay MTR station, were unable to return home to retrieve essential medications like blood sugar and blood pressure drugs.

This resident also noted that some hotels in North Point significantly increased their rates, making them unaffordable for those seeking alternative accommodation.

Transport services resume

The Transport Department confirmed that affected sections of King’s Road were gradually reopened around noon, with tram services returning to normal. 

The department ensured that bus and tram operators conducted safety checks to guarantee smooth operations. 

The Quarry Bay MTR station’s A and B exits, which had been temporarily closed, were also reopened by 1pm, restoring full access to the station.

Official response and future preparedness

Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu commended the police for their professional and efficient handling of the bomb disposal. 

He highlighted the community’s cooperation and resilience, noting that such incidents provide valuable lessons for improving future responses.