Fire in Khorgos destroys warehouse and cargo trucks bound for Kazakhstan
A private, temporary storage facility in Khorgos, China, which served as a transit and staging point for goods destined for Kazakhstan, caught fire at around 5:00 a.m. on May 5, Qazinform News Agency correspondent reports.
The fire spread rapidly and completely destroyed the warehouse, as well as engulfed 17 trucks loaded with goods, ready for shipment to Kazakhstan. Final data on the quantity and damage is yet to be announced after the inspection by the Chinese side. No injuries were reported, as the warehouse was unoccupied at the time of the fire.
The Panfilov district administration stated that because the incident occurred in the territory of China, the investigation lies within Chinese jurisdiction, despite the cargo being bound for Kazakhstan.
It added Kazakhstani authorities are unable to investigate the scene of the fire, but are maintaining communication with Chinese colleagues.
Since the incident occurred on the territory of the PRC, all investigative actions and decisions are being carried out in accordance with the legislation of the People's Republic of China. The Kazakhstani side maintains constant communication with the Khorgos city administration, law enforcement agencies, as well as border and customs services, said the Panfilov district administration.
Officials further explained that compensation claims for destroyed cargo and vehicles must be handled in accordance with the People's Republic of China regulations, involving insurance and other local legal procedures.
Previously, Qazinform reported an explosion and fire at Kazzinc in Ust-Kamenogorsk leaves 4 injured.