Smoke continued to billow from a chemical plant in central China’s Henan province on Wednesday, a day after a powerful explosion killed at least six people and left four others missing, according to Chinese authorities.
The blast occurred at a facility owned by a chemical manufacturing firm in the city of Puyang on Tuesday. The explosion sent thick smoke into the air and shook nearby buildings. Emergency responders were quickly deployed, but firefighting efforts continued into the next day.
Officials said that more than 70 fire trucks and over 400 personnel had been dispatched to control the blaze. Although progress has been made, smoke could still be seen rising from the scene on Wednesday afternoon, highlighting the scale of the incident.
According to a statement by the local government, six people were confirmed dead, and four others remained unaccounted for. The cause of the explosion is still under investigation. Authorities are examining whether safety violations or equipment malfunctions played a role.
China’s Ministry of Emergency Management has dispatched a team to oversee rescue and recovery operations and assess potential environmental impacts. Preliminary reports indicated that some toxic substances may have been released, but there has been no official confirmation of contamination levels.
Industrial accidents are not uncommon in China, where rapid industrial development often clashes with safety standards. This latest incident has prompted calls for stricter enforcement of industrial safety regulations, particularly in the chemical sector.
Nearby residents were evacuated as a precaution, and local hospitals have been put on alert to treat any additional victims. Witnesses described a loud boom followed by flames and a thick plume of smoke, which was visible from several kilometers away.
State media reported that the plant involved produces various industrial chemicals, including flammable substances. Experts warn that the combination of high temperatures and hazardous materials makes firefighting especially difficult and dangerous.
Environmental authorities are monitoring air and water quality in the region. So far, no widespread pollution has been reported, but officials emphasized that the area will remain under surveillance in the coming days.
The tragedy has renewed public concern over the safety of China’s chemical industry. Social media users posted images and videos of the blast, many demanding accountability and transparency from both the company and local authorities.
Investigations are ongoing, and more details are expected to be released as search and rescue efforts continue. Local government representatives have pledged a thorough probe into the cause and vowed to hold those responsible accountable.
Source; Reuters
