• Source:JND
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  1. China fireworks factory explosion in Hunan kills 21.
  2. 61 injured; company head detained, investigation underway.
  3. President Xi emphasizes industrial safety after the incident.

At least 26 people were killed and 61 others injured in a massive explosion at a fireworks factory in China's Hunan province, officials said on Tuesday. The explosion occurred on Monday afternoon at the plant operated by the Huasheng fireworks manufacturing and display company in Liuyang, a county-level city under Changsha, the provincial capital.

Videos circulating on Chinese social media showed massive destruction of property spanning several kilometres.

More than 480 rescuers, organised into five teams, have been deployed for relief operations, with three rescue robots pressed into service.

Over 60 injured

Rescue officials said 26 people were killed and 61 others were injured. The injured have been rushed to hospitals for treatment, while a second round of search operations is underway.
China is a leading manufacturer and exporter of fireworks.

As the explosion site is located near two black powder warehouses, the rescuers have evacuated nearby residents and set up a buffer zone to prevent a secondary accident, the state-run Xinhua news agency reported.

The Ministry of Emergency Management has dispatched experts to the scene to guide rescue efforts. The person in charge of the company has been detained by police and the cause of the accident is being investigated, the report said.

ALSO READ: China: 12 Killed After Deadly Explosion At Fireworks Shop In Hubei During Lunar New Year Celebrations

China's mega fireworks business

Last year, China exported USD 1.14 billion worth of fireworks, more than two-thirds of global sales, data from the Observatory of Economic Complexity showed. Chinese President Xi Jinping also ordered authorities to strengthen risk screening and hazard control in key industries, enhance public safety and ensure the safety of people's lives and property.

ALSO READ: China: 22 Killed, Three Injured After Massive Fire Erupts At Restaurant In Liaoning Province | Horrific Video

Xi often issues "important instructions" to local officials after major accidents and disasters with fatalities. Last week, he urged a nationwide upgrade in China's disaster response capacity. Xi also issued instructions after a fire tore through several residential towers in Hong Kong's Wang Fuk Court complex in November killing 168 people.

(With inputs from agencies)

 


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