Thursday, September 29 2005 19:57 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Srinagar: At least seven persons were injured as a powerful blast shook high security Jehangir Chowk in the close vicinity of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Complex Srinagar today (Sept 29, 2005) , official sources said.

The blast took place near the main gate of Kashmir Haat, around 7 pm when there was a heavy movement of locals there, the sources said.

People ran helter shelter after hearing the big bang, they said.

The blast might have been caused by hurling of a grenade by militants, the sources said adding the whole area was immediately cordoned off by the security forces and a hunt was launched to nab the ultras.

Police and paramilitary personnel are deployed in strength in the area, earlier known as exhibition ground, in view of extended session of the Assembly.

Three security personnel and two children were among the injured, the sources said adding they have been evacuated to a hospital.

Prior to the grenade explosion there was heavy rush of people as the main road leading to Assembly and the only flyover was kept out of bounds for civilians in view of the Assembly session, the sources said.

The shopkeepers in the area were seen abandoning their shops after the blast and people ran in haste to save their lives, they said.