Fireworks factory blast in Chine kills 21, injures 61 others: state media
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An explosion at a fireworks factory in China’s central province killed at least 21 people and injured 61, according to state media.
The explosion occurred on Monday afternoon at a fireworks factory in the city of Liuyang, administered by Changsha in Hunan province, China’s official news agency Xinhua reported.
The facility was operated by the Liuyang Huasheng Fireworks Production and Display Company in Liuyang, which is under the jurisdiction of Changsha, the capital of Hunan. Liuyang hosts a center for fireworks production, state media China Daily reported.
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Fire crews are working to extinguish the fire that broke out after an explosion at a fireworks factory in Liuyang, China’s Hunan Province. (Yang Huafeng/China News Service/VCG via Getty Images)
Aerial footage from state broadcaster CCTV showed white smoke still billowing in parts of the region on Tuesday, facilities collapsed or damaged and debris strewn about.
About 500 firefighters, rescuers and medical personnel responded to the scene, according to the South China Morning Post. People in dangerous areas were evacuated due to the high risks posed by authorities’ two black powder depots at the site.
At least 21 people died and 61 people were injured in an explosion at a fireworks factory in Liuyang, China’s Hunan province. (Yang Huafeng/China News Service/VCG via Getty Images)
Chinese President Xi Jinping called for an “all-out effort” to rescue injured victims and search for unnamed people, Xinhua reported. He called on the authorities to investigate the cause of the incident and take serious responsibility. Xi also instructed to strengthen effective risk screening and hazard control and public safety management in key industries.
According to reports, Xi often issues “important instructions” to local officials after fatal accidents and disasters.
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Firefighters are carrying out rescue efforts after the explosion at a fireworks factory in Liuyang, China’s Hunan Province. (Yang Huafeng/China News Service/VCG via Getty Images)
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While the authorities launched an investigation into the cause of the explosion, unspecified “control measures” were taken against those responsible for the company.
To prevent further accidents during the search for survivors, rescuers took precautions such as spraying and humidification to eliminate possible dangers. Robots also assisted in search and rescue efforts.
