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In a tragic incident in central China, a fireworks factory explosion has resulted in the deaths of at least 21 individuals and injuries to 61 others, as reported by state media outlets.
The devastating blast took place on Monday afternoon at a fireworks facility located in Liuyang, a city governed by Changsha within the Hunan province, according to China’s official news agency, Xinhua.
Liuyang Huasheng Fireworks Manufacturing and Display Co. operated the plant. This city is recognized as a significant center for fireworks production, as highlighted by the state-run China Daily. The company falls under the jurisdiction of Changsha, the capital of Hunan.
Images captured by Yang Huafeng from China News Service and distributed via VCG through Getty Images, showed firefighters tirelessly working to extinguish the fire following the explosion at the fireworks plant.
State broadcaster CCTV provided aerial footage on Tuesday, which revealed plumes of white smoke still emanating from parts of the plant. The area showed significant destruction, with several facilities reduced to rubble and debris strewn across the site.
Nearly 500 firefighters, rescuers and medical personnel responded to the scene, according to the South China Morning Post. People in danger zones were evacuated because of what authorities described as high risks posed by two black powder warehouses at the site.
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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