Barge erupts in fire at New Yau Ma Tei Typhoon Shelter

A flat-bottomed barge carrying recycled waste caught fire at the New Yau Ma Tei Typhoon Shelter on Tuesday afternoon, triggering a loud explosion and sending thick plumes of smoke into the air.

The incident occurred at around 12.54pm, when witnesses reported hearing an explosion as smoke quickly spread across nearby roads.

Firefighters rushed to the scene and deployed one water jet and a breathing apparatus team to battle the blaze, with a fireboat also joining the operation.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the fire was likely caused by miscellaneous materials on board the vessel.

According to police, there are currently no indications of foul play, and no injuries were reported. Evacuations were deemed unnecessary.