A severe explosion occurred at a fireworks shop in Jiangsu Province in eastern China, killing 8 people and injuring 2. Authorities are rushing to investigate the cause amid the country’s peak fireworks usage period.
The tragic incident happened at about 2:30 p.m. local time on Sunday in Donghai District, Jiangsu Province. Preliminary findings indicate the explosion was caused by improper fireworks ignition by one or more local residents near the fireworks shop.
Following the incident, emergency management, fire departments, police, and public health officials quickly responded to conduct rescue operations and control the situation. The fire caused by the explosion was brought under control by approximately 4:00 p.m.
Reports state that 8 people died at the scene, while 2 others suffered minor burn injuries. Authorities have detained those involved and are conducting further investigations.
China's Ministry of Emergency Management issued a statement warning that the country is entering its peak fireworks and firecracker usage period for the Chinese New Year festival, which falls this Tuesday. The ministry cautioned the public to avoid risky behaviors such as igniting fireworks outside shops or smoking near fireworks vendors.
Additionally, the ministry has sent official notices to fireworks shop operators nationwide, urging them to strictly inspect safety measures to prevent potential risks and hazards.
Industrial accidents remain frequent in China, often criticized for lax safety standards. Earlier in February, an explosion at a biotechnology factory in Shanxi Province in northern China resulted in 8 deaths.
In late January, an explosion at a steel plant in Inner Mongolia claimed at least 9 lives.
. Source:channelnewsasia
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