Beijing (Monitoring Desk) A powerful explosion at a fireworks manufacturing factory in Liling city of Hunan province, China, has killed at least 21 people and injured 61 others.
According to Chinese media, the incident occurred in the evening, after which thick smoke clouds and continuous blasts were heard from the factory site. Videos circulating on social media show smoke rising and scenes of destruction from the mountainous area where the factory was located.
Drone footage reveals that where the factory building once stood, only debris remains, while rescue workers continue search and relief operations.
Authorities said the explosion was so powerful that the roofs of nearby buildings were also blown off, and the fire spread to surrounding areas before being brought under control.
More than 480 rescue personnel are participating in the operation, while additional experts have been deployed to the site. Officials have also established a three-kilometer control zone around the affected area and evacuated residents.
Police have taken some factory officials into custody, and investigations into the cause of the incident are ongoing. Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed sorrow over the tragedy and directed authorities to intensify search efforts for missing persons and identify those responsible.
