During the third plenum of the Chinese Communist Party in Beijing, a fire broke out on July 17 at Jiuding Department Store in Zigong City, Sichuan Province. Official reports state that the fire has claimed the lives of 16 people and injured a total of 39 individuals.
At 18:11 on July 17, a fire erupted in the Jiuding Department Store located in the Gaoxin District of Zigong City, Sichuan Province.
The building where the fire originated is a 14-story structure with fires identified on the 1st, 4th, 5th, and 6th floors, showing a three-dimensional burning pattern with heavy smoke filling the interior.
According to the latest update from local authorities at 4:29 on July 18, the rescue operation at the site of the “7·17” fire incident at Jiuding Building in Zigong City concluded at 3:00 in the early morning of July 18, with no more trapped individuals on site. The fire has resulted in the tragic loss of 16 lives. The hospitals in Zigong City have admitted 39 injured individuals, including 3 in critical condition.
Official statements indicate that a preliminary investigation suggests that the fire incident was caused by construction operations, with further details currently under investigation. Given the Chinese Communist Party’s tendency to conceal the truth, the exact cause of the fire is still unknown.
—
This incident serves as a tragic reminder of the importance of fire safety measures and proper construction practices in high-rise buildings. The loss of lives and injuries in the Jiuding Department Store fire highlights the need for strict adherence to safety protocols and thorough inspections to prevent such devastating events in the future.
The swift response of the local authorities and rescue teams in extinguishing the fire and conducting search-and-rescue operations demonstrates the dedication and professionalism of first responders in times of crisis. Their efforts in ensuring the safety of the public and minimizing casualties deserve recognition and appreciation.
As investigations continue into the exact circumstances surrounding the fire, it is crucial for transparency and accountability to prevail in order to prevent similar incidents from occurring. Proper oversight and enforcement of regulations are essential to safeguarding the well-being of citizens and maintaining the integrity of infrastructure projects.
The tragic outcome of the fire at Jiuding Department Store underscores the urgent need for improved safety standards and regulations in construction sites and commercial buildings across China. Authorities must prioritize the implementation of effective safety measures to protect lives and property from the threat of fire hazards.
In the wake of this devastating incident, our hearts go out to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives in the fire. May they find solace and strength in the face of this tremendous loss, and may the injured individuals receive the necessary medical attention and care for their recovery.