AFCD Cuts Firebreaks on Kai Kung Ling After Surge in Hill Fires
SingTao · 1 SOURCES1 day ago2 MIN
Summary
The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) has commenced work to cut firebreaks on Kai Kung Ling in Yuen Long following a series of hill fires that have severely impacted the area in recent years. The hill, situated within Lam Tsuen Country Park, has emerged as one of the New Territories' most severe hill fire black spots, partly due to the presence of over 500 hectares of approved burial zones that attract annual tomb-sweeping activities during Ching Ming Festival. Last year alone, three hill fires occurred, with the January incidents alone affecting approximately one-third of Lam Tsuen Country Park's total area.
Key Points
- Kai Kung Ling contains more than 500 hectares of New Territories Approved Burial Zones, making it a high-risk area for hill fires during annual Ching Ming Festival visits
- Last year saw three hill fires at the location: two on January 11 and January 27, and one on April 4, exceeding the 2020-2025 annual average of two incidents
- The January 11 fire generated two fire fronts measuring 200 metres and 500 metres respectively, burning for over 20 hours before being extinguished
- AFCD workers have been photographed clearing vegetation on the hill to create firebreaks at least 20 metres wide, removing fuel sources to slow or stop fire spread
- The firebreak strategy dates back to 1976 when the Wild Animals and Plants Protection Ordinance first established country parks including Shing Mun, Kam Shan, and Lion Rock
Why It Matters
The repeated destruction of Lam Tsuen Country Park's forested areas poses significant ecological and environmental concerns for Hong Kong's natural heritage. With Ching Ming Festival traditionally triggering a spike in hill fires across rural New Territories, the AFCD's proactive measures represent a critical attempt to break the cycle of annual vegetation loss and protect both the region's biodiversity and public safety infrastructure.
The repeated destruction of Lam Tsuen Country Park's forested areas poses significant ecological and environmental concerns for Hong Kong's natural heritage. With Ching Ming Festival traditionally triggering a spike in hill fires across rural New Territories, the AFCD's proactive measures represent a critical attempt to break the cycle of annual vegetation loss and protect both the region's biodiversity and public safety infrastructure.