According to reports, the condition of four people is said to be critical.

Local authorities told Xinhua news agency that three people were discharged from the hospital after treatment.

The blast occurred in the Beiying neighbourhood of Xiaodian District at around 1 p.m. As of 3 p.m, the news agency reported.

The fire that was caused due to the explosion has been brought under control.

Rescue teams are conducting door-to-door safety checks in the affected building.

An investigation into the cause of the explosion is currently underway.