Death toll rises to 9 after factory explosion in northern China

By Anadolu staff

ISTANBUL (AA) - The death toll from a powerful explosion at a factory in China’s northern Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region has risen to nine, state-run Xinhua News Agency reported Tuesday.

The blast occurred Sunday at a facility operated by Baogang United Steel in the western city of Baotou, when a 650-cubic-meter spherical tank containing saturated water and steam exploded.

At least 84 people were injured, including five in serious condition, according to the report. Most of the injured sustained minor wounds such as facial injuries and soft tissue contusions.

Production at the plant has been suspended, and authorities have ordered a citywide safety inspection of industrial and trade enterprises.

An investigation team set up by the autonomous regional government is examining the cause of the explosion and determining potential liability. Legal measures have been taken against individuals connected to the company, authorities said.