An explosion at a shoe factory in China has killed twenty-eight people.
A major fire broke out on July 9 at a large shoe factory in Xinyuan City, Futszyan Province, according to Zamin.uz.
Preliminary reports indicate that at least twenty-eight people have died in the incident, with the death toll potentially rising as rescue operations continue.
The BBC reported on the incident, citing images released by the local Sinxua news agency showing thick black smoke rising from the factory building, with some workers seen climbing onto the roof to escape the flames.
Upon receiving news of the fire, numerous firefighters and specialized rescue units were dispatched to the scene. Specialists reported conducting both firefighting efforts and the evacuation of people to safe areas.
Chinese leader Si Szinpin issued a statement expressing deep sorrow over the tragedy, noting the profound concern caused by the loss of many lives. He ordered authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the causes of the fire, identify those responsible, and hold them accountable under existing laws.
Xinyuan City in Futszyan Province is internationally recognized as China’s shoe manufacturing capital. Official data indicate that nearly twenty percent of all sports shoes produced worldwide are made in this city.
As such, the area is considered one of the most important industrial centers for the national economy. According to preliminary information, the fire began around 8:20 p.m. local time at the Huiteng Footwear factory.
Rescue workers and firefighters rushed to the scene, successfully evacuating more than two hundred people from the factory building.
No official figures have yet been released regarding the exact number of injured. Preliminary assessments by investigators suggest the fire may have started on the first floor of the building.
This area reportedly stored flammable materials and raw materials used in shoe production, allowing the fire to spread rapidly throughout the building.
Experts are currently investigating whether safety regulations were violated and to what extent.
