Explosion at steel plant in China leaves two dead and dozens injured
Photo: Chinese police (Getty Images)
A powerful explosion occurred at a steel plant in northern China, killing at least two workers and injuring dozens of employees, marking one of the region’s most serious industrial accidents in recent times, according to China’s Xinhua News Agency.
Circumstances of incident
The explosion occurred during the daytime on January 18 at the Inner Mongolia Baotou Steel Union plant in the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. According to local media and China Central Television (CCTV), a massive column of smoke rose above the facility.
Emergency responders and law enforcement agencies are working at the scene, and a search is under way for employees reported missing.
Casualties and injuries
According to the latest information, two workers were killed, eight people are listed as missing, and 84 individuals were taken to hospitals with injuries of varying severity. Local authorities said measures have already been taken against those responsible in accordance with Chinese law.
About company
Inner Mongolia Baotou Steel Union is among China’s largest steel producers. According to the World Steel Association, the company ranked 16th nationwide in 2024, producing about 15 million tonnes of steel.
The plant plays a key role in the region’s metallurgical industry and provides employment for a large number of workers.
Response after the explosion
Search-and-rescue teams continue operations at the plant, assessing the extent of the damage and inspecting equipment. Investigators are working to determine the cause of the explosion in order to prevent similar incidents in the future.
In the Zhytomyr region the timetable of suburban trains will change for one day. The adjustments will affect popular routes, and passengers have been notified in advance so they can plan their trips accordingly.
Starting January 22, Ukrzaliznytsia will change the schedules of more than 100 trains, including suburban services, in order to reduce delays on the Fastiv section, which was damaged by shelling in December, and to make route adjustments for security reasons.
