Cha Kwo Ling villagers prepare to leave their homes in Hong Kong

Cha Kwo Ling village, located in east Kowloon, Hong Kong, is facing imminent demolition as part of a public housing initiative. This settlement, characterized by small houses made from metal sheets and stones, has been home to residents for decades, with some families living there for over seventy years. The village has historical significance, having evolved from a fishing community to a squatter settlement during the rapid population growth in the mid-20th century, driven by immigrants fleeing civil unrest in China. The transformation of Hong Kong into a global financial center has led to the gradual erasure of such squatter villages. The British colonial government had previously encouraged the establishment of these settlements, which provided informal housing and supported the city’s industrial economy. However, safety concerns, particularly from fires, prompted the government to implement public housing policies aimed at resettling residents. As the demolition progresses, many villagers express reluctance to leave their homes, which hold deep personal and cultural significance. The ongoing changes reflect broader socio-economic shifts in Hong Kong, where the landscape is increasingly dominated by high-rise buildings and public housing projects. The final phase of demolition is set to occur in 2025, marking the end of an era for one of the last remaining squatter villages in the city. The emotional impact of this transition is palpable among residents, who have built their lives in Cha Kwo Ling. The impending loss of their homes symbolizes not only a physical displacement but also the erasure of a unique cultural heritage that has shaped the community for generations.