Beijing: A significant suspected gas explosion resulted in one fatality and left 22 individuals injured in northern China’s Hebei province on Wednesday, as reported by state media. Videos circulating on social media depicted extensive damage to buildings.
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The explosion occurred shortly before 8 am (0000 GMT) in a residential area in the city of Sanhe, situated less than 50 kilometers (30 miles) east of Beijing, according to state broadcaster CCTV. The broadcaster indicated that the blast, believed to have stemmed from a gas leak at a fried chicken shop, resulted in one casualty and multiple injuries. The injured individuals were promptly transported to the hospital, although the exact number of casualties remained uncertain.
At the scene, police officers were observed diverting traffic away from the vicinity where the explosion transpired, as witnessed by an AFP reporter. State media shared footage revealing a massive explosion engulfing a busy road during the morning rush hour, while another video on social media showcased a collapsed building and several damaged vehicles.
Rescue operations were swiftly initiated, with the local Langfang fire department dispatching 36 emergency vehicles and 154 personnel to the scene. The fire department confirmed that the blaze was under control, with rescue efforts underway urgently.
A witness working at a nearby store recounted hearing a loud noise and witnessing a building ablaze. She described the structure as virtually destroyed.
Incidents of explosions and other fatal accidents are not uncommon in China, often attributed to inadequate safety protocols and lax enforcement. In response to such incidents, President Xi Jinping has called for thorough introspection and intensified efforts to mitigate safety hazards.
Recent months have seen a series of tragic accidents across the country, frequently due to official negligence. Last month, a fire in a residential building in Nanjing claimed at least 15 lives and injured 44 individuals. In January, a fire erupted at a store in Xinyu, resulting in numerous fatalities, attributed to unauthorized fire usage. Similarly, in Henan province, a school dormitory fire caused the death of 13 students, reportedly ignited by an electric heating device. These incidents underscore the imperative for enhanced safety measures.
In November of the previous year, a fire at a coal company office in Shanxi province resulted in 26 fatalities and numerous hospitalizations. Likewise, an explosion at a barbecue restaurant in northwest China last June claimed 31 lives, prompting official commitments to bolster workplace safety nationwide.
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