PR in the Philippines

(SeaPRwire) –   An explosion at a fireworks factory in central China resulted in the deaths of at least 21 people and left 61 others injured, according to state media.

The incident occurred at a fireworks plant in Liuyang, a city under Changsha’s administration in Hunan province, on Monday afternoon, as reported by Xinhua, China’s official news agency.

The facility was operated by Liuyang Huasheng Fireworks Manufacturing and Display Co. in Liuyang, which falls within the jurisdiction of Hunan’s capital, Changsha. Liuyang is recognized as a major center for fireworks production, as noted by state-run China Daily.

Aerial footage broadcast by CCTV showed white smoke still rising from parts of the area on Tuesday, with buildings either collapsed or damaged and debris scattered throughout the site.

Nearly 500 firefighters, rescue workers, and medical personnel were dispatched to the scene, according to the South China Morning Post. Residents in nearby danger zones were evacuated due to elevated risks posed by two black powder warehouses located at the site.

Chinese President Xi Jinping directed officials to make “all-out efforts” to treat the injured and locate individuals who remain missing, Xinhua reported. He also urged authorities to investigate the cause of the explosion and ensure strict accountability. Additionally, he instructed that effective risk assessments and hazard controls be implemented across key industries, along with improvements in public safety oversight.

Reports indicate that President Xi frequently issues “important instructions” to local leaders following fatal accidents and disasters.

Investigations into the blast’s origin have been initiated, and unspecified “control measures” have been imposed on the company’s management.

To prevent further accidents during rescue operations, authorities employed techniques such as spraying and humidification to neutralize potential dangers, while robots were deployed to aid in search and rescue efforts.