Chandigarh: Panic gripped Chandigarh on Wednesday after a low-intensity explosion was reported outside the BJP’s office in Sector 37, prompting a swift response from the police and emergency services.
Preliminary reports indicated that the sound of the blast was heard over a considerable distance, triggering concern among local residents and passers-by in the area.
On receiving information about the incident, personnel from the police and fire department, along with senior officials, rushed to the spot.
The area was immediately secured, and an investigation was initiated to ascertain the cause and nature of the explosion.
The police cordoned off the entire locality and began a detailed search operation.
CCTV footage from nearby areas is being scrutinised to identify any suspicious movement before or after the incident, an official said.
According to media reports, the explosion occurred at around 4.30 p.m., resulting in damage to vehicles parked outside the BJP office premises. Some two-wheelers and cars suffered visible impact, though no casualties have been reported so far.
The blast damaged several vehicles, with broken parts and marks visible at the site. However, the exact nature of the explosion remains unclear. While initial inputs suggest it was a low-intensity blast, officials have not ruled out any possibility, and forensic teams are expected to examine the spot for further clues.
Photographs from the scene have surfaced, showing police personnel deployed in the area and damaged scooters and cars parked nearby. The visuals indicate the impact was limited but sufficient to cause concern in the locality.
BJP leader Vineet Joshi, brother of the Chandigarh Mayor, told the media that some vehicles sustained minor damage in the incident.
He said the sound of an explosion was heard in the area, following which the police were informed. According to sources, the explosion was of low intensity.
The police have issued an alert across Chandigarh and stepped up vigil in sensitive areas as a precautionary measure. Sources indicated that the incident may have been carried out by individuals on motorcycles, although this has not yet been officially confirmed.
Further investigation is underway, and officials are examining all angles to determine the sequence of events leading to the explosion.
(IANS)
