Yinchuan, 22 June, 2023 (GNP): A devastating cooking gas explosion occurred at a popular barbecue restaurant in Yinchuan, the capital of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, northwestern China, resulting in the loss of 31 lives and leaving seven others injured. The incident took place on the evening of Wednesday during the national celebrations on the eve of the Dragon Boat Festival.
The explosion, caused by a gas leak, ripped through the restaurant, which was bustling with people preparing for the holiday weekend. Among the victims were elderly individuals and high school students, according to reports. Prompt search and rescue efforts were initiated, with unconscious individuals being carried out of the establishment by the dedicated teams on-site.
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Preliminary investigations suggest that an hour before the explosion, employees detected the smell of cooking gas and discovered a broken valve on a gas tank. Tragically, the blast occurred while an employee was replacing the faulty valve. Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for urgent medical care for the injured and a comprehensive safety review. He emphasized the need to determine the cause of the accident swiftly and hold those responsible accountable under the law.
Fuyang Barbecue, a popular chain restaurant known for its grilled skewers and stir-fried dishes, operates the outlet where the incident took place. The establishment, featuring two floors with seating for 20 on the ground floor and private dining rooms on the second floor, is a well-liked destination for locals and visitors alike.
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The Ministry of Emergency Management confirmed that the search and rescue operation at the restaurant has been concluded. Investigators are currently working to determine the precise cause of the blast. In the wake of this tragedy, President Xi urged all regions and related departments to prioritize risk management and workplace safety, launching campaigns to address potential hazards.