Saturday, July 30 2005 11:48 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Srinagar: The exchange of fire between security forces and holed up militants involved in the attack in the central Lal Chowk area of the city resumed in the small hours today (Jul 30, 2005) as troops sealed off many roads in the vicinity and imposed restrictions on the movement of people, official sources said.

Two security personnel were killed and 18 others, including seven mediapersons, were injured when militants hurled a grenade and opened fire at a BSF (Border Security Force) armoured vehicle triggering an exchange of fire yesterday (Jul 29, 2005).

The security forces have sealed off all the roads leading to Lal Chowk, Budshah Chowk, Regal Chowk and other adjoining areas and have asked residents not to venture out of their homes in view of the gunbattle which broke out after yesterday's attack.

School in the affected areas have been closed today, they said.

Officials said certain precautionary measures have been taken to minimise the civilian casualties.

After the night long lull security forces and militants started exchanging intermittent fire soon after the day break.

The two militants were suspected to be holed up in two buildings adjacent to the Akhara building, which houses the holy mace of Lord Shiva besides a large number of BSF troopers.

Both the buildings have been surrounded by security forces to prevent the militants from escaping, the sources said.