A fireworks factory explosion in China has killed 21 people and injured 61. President Xi Jinping has called for a thorough investigation, state media reported.
The explosion occurred at around 4:40 p.m. on Monday in Changsha, the capital of Hunan province, a major fireworks manufacturing center.
Videos showed thick smoke rising from collapsed buildings and debris strewn across the area. About 500 firefighters, rescuers, and medical personnel were at the scene, according to the South China Morning Post.
The explosion took place at the Huasheng Fireworks Manufacturing and Display Company, according to media reports.
President Xi called for a swift investigation into the cause of the explosion and for those responsible to be brought to justice. He also instructed authorities to strengthen risk inspection and hazard control in key industrial sectors to ensure the safety of people’s lives and property.
According to statistics, China exported $1.14 billion worth of fireworks last year, accounting for more than two-thirds of global sales.
