At least 21 people died and 61 were injured following a major explosion at the Huasheng Fireworks Manufacturing and Display Co. plant in Liuyang, Hunan province, China. The incident occurred on Monday afternoon, around 4:40 PM local time.
Rescue operations were complicated by the presence of two gunpowder warehouses within the factory grounds, identified as high-risk areas. Authorities swiftly implemented a 3km evacuation zone around the site. Nearly 500 emergency personnel, including five rescue teams, were deployed to manage the crisis, with reports indicating the use of three robots to aid in search and rescue efforts amid the debris.
President Orders Investigation Amidst Repeated Incidents
President Xi Jinping has reportedly called for a thorough investigation into the cause of the blast and stressed the need for accountability. This follows similar deadly incidents, including two explosions at fireworks shops around the Lunar New Year period in February. Authorities have stated that "control measures" have been taken against those in charge of the company, though specifics were not detailed.
Read More: Two Marine Rescue Volunteers Die After Boat Capsizes Near Ballina
Context: Liuyang's Role in Pyrotechnics
Liuyang, a city within Hunan province, is recognized globally for its significant role in fireworks manufacturing, often described as the world's largest producer. The area has a long history tied to the industry. The Ministry of Emergency Management has dispatched a team to oversee the ongoing rescue and relief efforts. Reports also mention a separate explosion in Hubei province less than three months prior, which resulted in 12 fatalities at a firecracker store.
