A powerful explosion at a fireworks manufacturing plant in Liuyang, Hunan province, killed 26 people and wounded 61 others on Monday afternoon, Chinese state media reported.

The blast occurred at the Huasheng Fireworks plant, forcing authorities to evacuate residents within a 3-kilometer (1.9-mile) radius as rescue teams worked to secure the site. Rescue operations have now been completed, according to officials.

More than 1,500 emergency responders, supported by search dogs, drones, and robots, were deployed to the scene. Seven people trapped under debris were successfully rescued. Authorities noted that two gunpowder warehouses within the factory posed a significant risk of secondary explosions during the operation. To mitigate dangers, teams took measures such as humidifying the area.

The force of the blast was strong enough to shatter windows in nearby residential buildings, deform aluminum window frames, and twist stainless-steel doors out of shape, a local resident told media outlets. One villager living about 1 km from the plant described how stones from the explosion blocked roads, forcing residents to take detours. Another resident said she had left the village out of fear.

The injured, ranging in age from their 20s to 60s, suffered injuries including broken bones from flying debris, according to CCTV reports from the scene.President Xi Jinping called for all-out efforts to search for any missing individuals and treat the injured. He also ordered a thorough investigation into the cause of the accident and demanded that those responsible be held accountable.

Police have launched an investigation and taken “control measures” against the staff in charge of the company. Local authorities said they are monitoring air and water quality in the vicinity, with environmental indicators reported as normal so far.

Liuyang is known as one of the world’s largest producers of fireworks. The industry has a long history in the region but has been plagued by safety issues. Explosions at fireworks factories and shops are not uncommon in China and have often resulted in heavy casualties. In February, an explosion at a fireworks store in Hubei province killed 12 people.

The latest tragedy has once again highlighted concerns over safety standards and regulatory oversight in the fireworks manufacturing sector, which remains economically vital for some regions but carries high risks due to the handling of explosive materials.Further details on the cause of the Monday blast are expected as the investigation continues. (ILKHA)