A 12‑year‑old resident of a 14‑storey glass‑fronted block suffered continuous nosebleeds during a recent heatwave after the building’s air conditioning was abruptly switched off.
The high‑rise, which was converted from an office building into flats, retains heat rapidly because the windows cannot be fully opened for safety reasons.
Other residents reported severe discomfort, with one child developing a rash and breathing difficulties, prompting a hospital visit.
Residents described feeling dehumanised when the air conditioning unit was disconnected, claiming they were treated “like cattle” by the building’s management.
After complaints were raised, local authorities instructed the management company to restore the cooling system, which was completed last week.
The building, redeveloped into residential units in 2017, had previously operated with air conditioning as an optional amenity, with electricity costs borne by occupants.
The management company confirmed that the air conditioning is now functional for all residents, but noted that power costs remain the responsibility of each tenant.
Local representatives condemned the decision to disable cooling during extreme temperatures, demanding accountability and better protection for vulnerable residents.
Despite the restoration, some families remain concerned about the high costs of running air conditioning and the ongoing impact on their health during the heatwave.
