A powerful explosion at a fireworks factory in Changsha, Hunan province in central China, has killed at least 21 people and injured 61 others, according to state-run media reports on Thursday.

The blast occurred on Monday at around 4:40 p.m. local time (8:40 a.m. UTC). Changsha is a major hub for fireworks manufacturing.

The cause of the explosion remains unclear. President Xi Jinping has called for a thorough investigation and urged authorities to strengthen risk screening and safety management in key industries.

Nearly 500 rescuers were deployed to the site, with three robots assisting in search and rescue operations. Residents in danger zones were evacuated due to the presence of two black powder depots on site.

Rescue workers used spraying and humidification to eliminate potential hazards and prevent further accidents during the operation.

Authorities have taken “control measures” against those in charge of the fireworks company, though the nature of these measures has not been specified.

Source: www.dw.com