An explosion at a fireworks factory in central China has tragically claimed the lives of at least 21 individuals and left 61 others injured, as reported by state media outlets.
The incident occurred on Monday afternoon at a fireworks manufacturing facility located in Liuyang, a city under the administration of Changsha in Hunan province, according to Xinhua, China’s official news agency.
The ill-fated plant was run by Liuyang Huasheng Fireworks Manufacturing and Display Co., situated in Liuyang, a prominent center for the fireworks industry in China, as highlighted by the state-run China Daily.
Images from the scene show fire crews diligently working to extinguish the flames following the explosion at the fireworks plant in Liuyang, Hunan Province. (Yang Huafeng/China News Service/VCG via Getty Images)
State broadcaster CCTV released aerial footage on Tuesday, revealing plumes of white smoke still rising from the site, with several structures collapsed or severely damaged and debris strewn across the area.
According to the South China Morning Post, nearly 500 firefighters, rescue workers, and medical personnel swiftly responded to the disaster. Authorities evacuated those in danger zones, citing significant risks associated with two black powder warehouses at the location.
An explosion at a fireworks factory in Liuyang, Hunan Province of China, killed at least 21 people and injured 61 others. (Yang Huafeng/China News Service/VCG via Getty Images)
Chinese President Xi Jinping called for “all-out efforts” to save injured victims and to search for people who remain unaccounted for, Xinhua reported. He called on authorities to probe the cause and pursue serious accountability. Xi also ordered effective risk screening and hazard control in key industries and the strengthening of public safety management.
Xi often issues “important instructions” to local officials after deadly accidents and disasters, according to reports.
Fire rescue forces carry out rescue operations after an explosion at a fireworks plant in Liuyang, Hunan Province of China. (Yang Huafeng/China News Service/VCG via Getty Images)
Authorities launched an investigation into the cause of the blast, and unspecified “control measures” were taken against those in charge of the company.
In an effort to avoid additional accidents during the search for survivors, rescuers adopted measures such as spraying and humidification to eliminate potential hazards. Robots were also used to assist with the search and rescue operation.
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