Xi urges all-out rescue work after blast in Ningxia

President Xi Jinping urged all-out efforts to rescue the injured in the gas explosion that occurred in Yinchuan, Ningxia Hui autonomous region on Wednesday.

The blast took place at around 8:40 pm Wednesday at a barbecue shop in Xingqing district and caused a fire. The flames had been put out by 9:20 pm.

By 2 am the following day, 38 people had been found and sent to a local hospital for medical treatment. 31 of them passed away despite receiving treatment, and the remaining seven individuals are being saved with all-out efforts, local authorities said Thursday.

Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the instruction following the accident, urging more efforts to ensure the safety of the people's lives and property.

Xi urged efforts to ascertain the cause of the accident as soon as possible and hold the relevant people accountable in accordance with the law.

All regions and related departments should screen for and rectify all types of risks and hidden dangers, Xi noted.

Relevant departments should launch a campaign to promote workplace safety at an early date and enhance safety overhaul of key sectors and industries, Xi added.

Under Xi's instruction, a work group composed of several central government organs has been sent to the scene to guide the rescue efforts.

The cause of the accident is under investigation.

(Video from CCTV)