A powerful explosion at a fireworks factory in central China has killed at least 21 people and injured 61 others, prompting President Xi Jinping to call for a swift and thorough investigation.
The blast occurred on Monday afternoon in Liuyang, a major fireworks manufacturing hub under the administration of Changsha, the capital of Hunan province. According to state media reports, the explosion took place at around 4:40 p.m. local time, sending massive plumes of smoke into the sky and leaving widespread destruction in its wake.
Footage circulating on social media showed thick black smoke rising over the site, with debris scattered across the surrounding area. Emergency responders described the scene as highly hazardous, with collapsed structures and unstable materials complicating rescue efforts.
Authorities dispatched five rescue teams comprising nearly 500 personnel, supported by robotic units, to conduct search and recovery operations. Officials said a “human–machine coordinated approach” was being used to comb through the debris.
Two black powder storage facilities within the factory compound were identified as high-risk zones, raising fears of further explosions. As a precaution, residents in nearby areas were evacuated, with authorities establishing a 1-kilometre rescue zone and a 3-kilometre control perimeter.
Investigation Underway
The explosion occurred at the Huasheng Fireworks Manufacturing and Display Company. State media reported that the person in charge of the company has been detained as investigators work to determine the cause of the blast.
President Xi has ordered officials to identify the cause quickly and ensure accountability. He also called for stronger safety measures across high-risk industries to prevent similar disasters.
China has long struggled with industrial accidents, particularly in sectors involving hazardous materials such as fireworks and chemicals, despite repeated government pledges to improve safety standards.
Broader Safety Concerns
The incident has once again drawn attention to safety practices in China’s manufacturing sector. Liuyang is one of the country’s major fireworks production centres, contributing significantly to China’s global dominance in the industry.
According to trade data, China exported over $1.1 billion worth of fireworks last year, accounting for more than two-thirds of global supply.
In response to the latest tragedy, Xi urged authorities nationwide to strengthen risk monitoring, improve hazard control mechanisms, and ensure the protection of lives and property.
The explosion follows a series of recent safety incidents across the country, reinforcing concerns about enforcement gaps and the challenges of regulating high-risk industries at scale.
(with inputs from Reuters)
