A powerful explosion at a fireworks factory in central China has killed 26 people and injured 61 others, according to state media.
The blast happened on Monday afternoon at the Huasheng Fireworks plant in Liuyang, forcing authorities to evacuate residents within a 3km radius.
Rescue operations have now ended. More than 1,500 emergency responders were deployed, supported by dogs, drones and robots. Seven people trapped under debris were rescued.
Police have launched an investigation into the cause of the explosion. State media reported that “control measures” have been taken against staff in charge of the company.
Authorities said two gunpowder warehouses at the site posed a high risk during rescue efforts. Teams also humidified the area to “prevent secondary accidents during the rescue”.
The blast caused widespread damage. Windows in nearby residential buildings were shattered, according to a televised report by China Central Television.
Injured victims are aged between their 20s and 60s. Some suffered bone injuries after being struck by flying debris.
Xi Jinping has called for all-out efforts to search for the missing and treat the injured. He also ordered an investigation to hold those responsible accountable.
Local authorities said they are monitoring water and air quality in the area. Environmental indicators remain normal.
Residents described the scale of the damage. One person living about 1km from the factory said debris had blocked roads.
“The glass windows in our homes were shattered, aluminum window frames were deformed, and even the stainless-steel doors were twisted out of shape,” she said.
Another resident said she had left the village out of fear.
Liuyang is known for fireworks manufacturing and is widely described as the world’s largest producer of fireworks.
Explosions at fireworks factories and shops are not uncommon in China and are often deadly. In February, 12 people were killed in a similar incident at a fireworks store in Hubei Province.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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