A powerful explosion occurred at a fireworks shop in a village in China's Jiangsu province on Sunday afternoon, resulting in fatalities and numerous injuries.
Operative Information Center-OMM, citing the Donghai publication, reports that the incident was triggered by a resident who ignited pyrotechnic devices near the store in violation of safety regulations. Emergency services were immediately dispatched to the scene to contain the resulting fire and provide medical assistance to the victims.
The use of fireworks is a deeply rooted tradition in China during the Lunar New Year, also known as the Spring Festival. While many regions had previously implemented bans on pyrotechnics to combat air pollution and enhance public safety, several local governments eased these restrictions this year, leading to a resurgence of the tradition across the country. Following the tragedy, China's Ministry of Emergency Management issued urgent instructions to all regions to strengthen security measures and oversight regarding the sale and use of explosive materials.
This year's festival, which begins on Tuesday, marks the start of the Year of the Fire Horse according to Chinese astrology. Historically, such celebrations in China have seen a spike in industrial and residential accidents related to the manufacturing and storage of fireworks. Jiangsu province, located on the country's eastern coast, is one of China's major economic hubs, and authorities are now conducting a comprehensive investigation into the safety protocols of retail outlets in the region to prevent further incidents during the holiday period.
