Last Sunday morning (April 12), an accident occurred at a hydropower station in Fuling, Chongqing, resulting in the deaths of four people.
According to the official Chinese media Xinhua News Agency on April 13, at 9:05 am on the 12th, a sudden burst of water pressure steel pipe at the Qingyandong Hydropower Station (a fourth-level station located in Qingyang Town, Fuling District) under the Power Generation Branch of Chongqing Xingfu Electric Power Development Co., Ltd. caused water to gush out, leading to the accident which resulted in 2 deaths and 2 missing persons.
By 6:50 pm on the 12th, the missing persons had been found, and it was confirmed that they showed no signs of life. Currently, post-accident cleanup work is underway, and an investigation into the cause of the accident has been initiated.
According to data from the Qichacha app, the power generation branch of Chongqing Xingfu Electric Power Development Co., Ltd. was established in August 2025, with Huang as the legal representative. Its business scope includes hydroelectric power generation, construction engineering, power supply services, and specialized construction operations. The change of registration address from Tongle Town in Fuling District to Qingyang Town was recorded in September of last year.
This tragic incident has not only claimed lives but has also raised concerns about the safety measures and practices at hydropower stations. The sudden rupture of the water pressure steel pipe highlights the potential dangers involved in such operations and underscores the critical importance of thorough maintenance and regular safety inspections in the hydropower industry.
The families and loved ones of the deceased are undoubtedly devastated by this loss, and our thoughts are with them during this difficult time. Efforts are being made to address the aftermath of the accident and determine the root causes to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
As authorities continue their investigation and work on rectifying the situation, there will likely be increased scrutiny on the safety procedures and protocols in place at hydropower facilities across the region. It is essential for companies operating in the energy sector to prioritize safety above all else and ensure that comprehensive measures are in place to protect the well-being of employees and the surrounding communities.
While this incident serves as a sobering reminder of the risks associated with hydropower generation, it also serves as an opportunity for the industry to reevaluate and enhance safety standards to prevent such accidents from occurring again. Our hope is that lessons will be learned from this tragedy, leading to improved safety practices and a renewed commitment to safeguarding human lives in the pursuit of sustainable energy production.