Chinese investigators are pointing to construction work as the likely cause of a devastating fire that resulted in 16 deaths at a shopping mall in the southwestern city of Zigong. The fire, which broke out on Wednesday evening, took nearly 10 hours to be fully extinguished, as reported by state media.
The 14-story commercial building, which houses a department store, offices, restaurants, and a movie theater, was successfully evacuated with 75 individuals led to safety, according to the official news agency Xinhua. Social media posts captured thick black smoke billowing out of windows on the lower levels of the building during the incident.
Local media sources revealed that firefighters utilized drones to help combat the flames, showcasing the technological advancements being employed in emergency response efforts.
Fire safety continues to be a significant concern in China, with a reported 19% increase in fire fatalities up to late May compared to the previous year. The National Fire and Rescue Administration spokesperson, Li Wanfeng, highlighted that fires in public places like hotels and restaurants have surged by 40%, often attributed to issues such as leaking gas lines and non-compliance with safety protocols.
Tragic incidents like the recent fire in Zigong are not isolated occurrences. Earlier this year, a fire in Jiangxi province claimed 39 lives due to unauthorized welding, while another fire in Nanjing resulted in 15 fatalities in a residential building.
One eyewitness, Li Wanyu, shared her experience of being inside the mall during the fire, recounting the orderly evacuation process initiated by the staff. She mentioned that while initially confused, she quickly realized the seriousness of the situation and safely exited the building along with others.
The shopping mall, once a bustling hub in Zigong, has seen a decline in popularity over the years, according to residents. The proximity of the mall to the city government building adds another layer of significance to this tragic event.
