Beijing: A massive explosion at a firecracker factory in China has left 21 people dead, while 61 others are reported to be injured. Following the incident, Chinese President Xi Jinping has ordered an investigation into the matter.
The incident is reported to have occurred in China's Hunan province. Following the blast, firefighters, rescue personnel, and medical staff were deployed to the scene.
According to Reuters, the explosion took place on Monday evening. Meanwhile, videos circulating on Chinese social media platforms since the incident appear to show thick smoke billowing over a large area, where buildings have collapsed and debris lies scattered. However, the authenticity of these videos has not yet been officially confirmed.
According to reports, the explosion occurred at the Huasheng Fireworks Manufacturing and Display Company. Xi Jinping has ordered an investigation to determine the causes of the blast and has called for strict accountability regarding the incident.
He has also instructed officials to conduct risk assessments in key industries, strengthen disaster control measures, enhance public safety, and improve the protection of people's lives and property.
