DHAKA: China’s President Xi Jinping has demanded an investigation into Shanghai New Year’s Eve crush that killed 36 people and injured 47.

The crush happened in Chenyi Square in Shanghai’s historic Bund district, where thousands of people had gathered to countdown to the New Year.

Investigations are likely to examine whether there were enough police on duty to manage the huge crowds.

New Year’s Day festivities in the city have been cancelled, Chinese media say.

Xi told Shanghai officials to provide an explanation for Wednesday’s fatalities as soon as possible, state TV reported.

Local officials around China were also told to ensure no repeat of the Shanghai incident could occur elsewhere, media reported.

BDST: 0040 HRS, JAN 02, 2015