Changsha, China. An explosion at a fireworks factory in Hunan province killed 21 people and injured 61, Chinese state media reported on Tuesday. President Xi Jinping called for a thorough investigation and strict accountability.
Explosion in Liuyang
The blast occurred on Monday at about 4:40 p.m. (0840 GMT) in Liuyang, which is under the administration of Hunan’s capital, Changsha, and is a hub for fireworks manufacturing, according to CCTV and Xinhua.
Social media footage showed large plumes of smoke rising into clear skies against green mountains. Reuters verified the location shown in footage posted on May 4 as Changsha.
A Xinhua video showed thick smoke rising from a large site with collapsed buildings and debris.
Rescue response and safety measures
Xinhua said five rescue teams with nearly 500 personnel and three rescue robots were sent to the scene, using a “human–machine coordinated approach” to carry out grid-style searches.
Two black powder storage warehouses within the factory compound were described as high-risk hazards, and authorities evacuated residents from danger zones. Xinhua reported that officials established a 1 km rescue area and a 3 km control zone.
Company and investigation
State media identified the site as Huasheng Fireworks Manufacturing and Display Company. Reuters said it could not find a telephone listing for the company to seek comment.
China Daily reported that the person in charge of the company has been detained and that the cause of the accident was under investigation.
Xi calls for accountability
Xinhua reported that Xi called for a speedy investigation to determine the cause of the explosion and for strict accountability for the incident.
What steps should authorities prioritize to prevent similar industrial accidents in the future?