An explosion at a fireworks factory in China has claimed the lives of 26 people (VIDEO)
The explosion occurred at the Huasheng Fireworks factory in Liuyang, Hunan Province. According to state media, 26 people were killed and a further 61 were injured, the BBC reports.
Following the incident, the authorities evacuated people within a three-kilometre radius of the factory. Over 1,500 rescue workers, as well as dogs, drones and robots, were deployed to deal with the aftermath. Seven people were rescued from the rubble.
The police are investigating the causes of the explosion and have taken ‘control measures’ against the responsible employees of the plant.
During the rescue operation, there was an increased risk due to two gunpowder stores on the factory premises. Rescue workers took additional precautions, including wetting the area to prevent further incidents.
The force of the explosion was such that it blew out windows in nearby residential buildings. The victims are aged between 20 and 60, and some of them suffered bone injuries from flying debris.
Chinese President Xi Jinping called for every effort to be made to search for the missing and assist the injured, as well as to conduct an investigation and hold those responsible to account.
Local authorities reported that they are monitoring water and air quality in the area, and that relevant indicators remain within normal limits.
A resident living about a kilometre from the plant said that after the explosion, rocks fell onto the roads, and in homes, windows were shattered and window frames and doors were warped.
Another local resident noted that she had left the village out of fear.
The city of Liuyang is known as a major centre for fireworks production. Similar explosions at such factories in China occur regularly and often result in fatalities. In February, 12 people were killed in an explosion at a fireworks shop in Hubei province.
