Gas explosion injures 23 in Baodi district of Tianjin

A gas explosion in Tianjin on Tuesday left 23 people injured, with three suffering severe burns, local media reported.

The accident occurred at 4:45 pm on Tuesday near a crossroad in the city's Baodi district, according to local news portal Jinyun.

All those injured were taken to hospital for treatment and five people with minor injuries have been discharged.

The city's Party chief Li Hongzhong and mayor Zhang Gong gave instructions immediately after the accident.

They urged all-out efforts to guarantee the life of those affected, and called for thorough inspections to prevent additional accidents and hazards.

The gas explosion was caused by leak due to illegal construction, according to the emergency management authority in Baodi district of Tianjin on Tuesday night.

Further rescue efforts and investigations are underway.