The video grab taken on June 27, 2015 shows the scene where a fire took place at a park in New Taipei, southeast China's Taiwan. (Photo/Xinhua)
(ECNS) -- A fire at a recreational park in Taiwan, allegedly sparked by a flammable powder exploding midair, has left more than 500 people injured, with 194 severely burned and 183 in intensive care, authorities said Sunday.
Although the exact cause is still being investigated, Taiwan-based China Times is reporting that smoking may have contributed to ignition of the powder as more than 10 cigarette lighters were found in the immediate vicinity.
Taiwan's Central News Agency says that each of the victims may get up to 3 million New Taiwan dollars in compensation.
Xinhua News Agency said Sunday that 524 people were injured in the fire at the Formosa Water Park, citing the New Taipei city health bureau.
It is the worst incidence of mass injury in the history of New Taipei city. The park was hosting a Color Play Asia party, attended by around 4500 people, when powder ejected from a performance stage ignited, flying off in all directions and engulfing the audience.
Most of the injured suffered severe burns or the inhalation of large amounts of black carbon dust, and are being treated in 43 local hospitals.
At an emergency meeting Sunday, Eric Chu, the mayor of New Taipei, ordered a complete moratorium on the use of carbon powder in his jurisdiction.
Authorities in other parts of the island are also vowing strict bans and controls on the use of powders and other flammable materials in public places to prevent more accidents.
