Mainland authorities have ordered a nationwide campaign targeting fire hazards in high-rise residential and public buildings.

This came after Hong Kong's deadliest blaze in decades at Tai Po's Wang Fuk Court claimed at least 128 lives.

The State Council's work safety committee said the inspection and rectification campaign targets high-rise buildings, specifically those currently undergoing external wall renovations and interior modifications.

Checks will mainly focus on a number of issues, including the use of bamboo scaffolding and non-flame-retardant mesh netting, as well as unauthorised construction.

Management companies are required to carry out self-inspections while local authorities are told to conduct on-site checks.

The committee stressed that those failing to take timely action would face harsh punishment.