A devastating explosion at a fireworks factory in China’s Hunan province has left 21 people dead and 61 injured, according to state media reports on Tuesday, triggering calls from President Xi Jinping for a thorough investigation into the incident.
Incident details
China’s official Xinhua news agency said the blast occurred on Monday afternoon in the city of Changsha. Approximately 500 emergency responders, including firefighters and medical personnel, were dispatched to the scene. Authorities also evacuated nearby residents, citing the risk posed by two warehouses storing black powder.
Footage captured by surveillance cameras showed thick plumes of smoke rising above the factory complex, owned by Huasheng Fireworks Display Company. The surrounding area appeared heavily damaged, with buildings reduced to rubble and debris scattered across the site.
Officials have launched an inquiry into the cause of the explosion and said “control measures” had been taken against company executives, although no further details were provided.
Rescue teams deployed three robots to assist in the search and recovery operation, highlighting the scale and danger of the aftermath.
President’s response
Xi Jinping has instructed authorities to strengthen risk assessments and tighten oversight of hazards across key industrial sectors.
Earlier this year, 12 people were killed in a fireworks explosion in eastern China during Lunar New Year festivities. Last June, another blast at a fireworks factory in Hunan province claimed nine lives and injured 26 others.
