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Clare Jim
Hong Kong: A blast at a fireworks factory in China’s Hunan province killed 21 people and injured 61, prompting President Xi Jinping to call for a thorough investigation, state media reported on Tuesday.
The blast in Hunan’s capital city of Changsha, home to a hub for fireworks manufacturing, occurred on Monday about 4.40pm (6.40pm AEST), according to reports by CCTV and Xinhua.
Videos on Chinese internet platforms showed thick smoke billowing from a large site with collapsed buildings and debris strewn around the area. Reuters could not verify the footage.
Nearly 500 firefighters, rescuers and medical personnel attended the scene, according to the South China Morning Post.
To reduce risks during the operation, rescuers adopted measures such as spraying and humidification to eliminate potential hazards. They also deployed three robots to assist with the search-and-rescue operation.
The blast happened at Huasheng Fireworks Manufacturing and Display Company, media said. Reuters could not find a telephone listing for the company to seek comment.
Xi called for a speedy investigation to determine the cause of the blast and strict accountability for the incident, Xinhua reported.
Last year, China exported $US1.14 billion ($1.59 billion) worth of fireworks, more than two-thirds of global sales, data from the Observatory of Economic Complexity shows.
Xi also ordered authorities to strengthen risk screening and hazard control in key industries, enhance public safety and ensure the safety of people’s lives and property.
The Chinese leader often issues “important instructions” to local officials after major accidents and disasters with fatalities. Last week, he urged a nationwide upgrade in China’s disaster response capacity.
Xi also issued instructions after last November’s blaze at Hong Kong’s Wang Fuk Court housing complex that killed 168 people.
Reuters, AP
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