Banglore Serial Blasts

Terror hit Bangalore Friday afternoon as nine low intensity blasts ripped through different parts of the IT city. Majority of explosions took place within a span of half an hour, starting at 1:45 pm. The sites that were targetted were Madiwala, Adugodi area, Koramangla, Hosur Road, Nayandahalli and Shivaji Nagar on Mysore Road and Langford Town. There were unconfirmed reports that the last two blasts took place in the evening around 5.30 pm near Gopalan Mall also on Mysore Road and at north Bangalore near a flyover.All the sites are located in the southern part of the city, with some hosting several upmarket malls. These are fairly congested with Madiwala being one of the biggest markets of the city. The blast here took place at the bus stand.

The strech from Brigade Road to the Hosur Road National Highway leading to Chennai bore the brunt in today's attack.

All the wounded have been rushed to nearby hospitals for medical aid. Some have been admitted to St John’s and Mallya hospitals.

Elaborating on the modus operandi, the Police Commissioner said that crude bombs with timer devices were used. Iron bolts had been fixed to them and each explosion had the intensity of 1-2 hand grenades.

The blasts are thought to be of low-intensity using gelatin sticks. Traces of ammonium nitrate has also been found.

One blast took place near tennis star Mahesh Bhupathi’s house. However, barring shattering some window panes, there was no other major damage.

Forensic experts and bomb disposal squads have reached the targetted sites.

The authorities have cordoned off the entire locality and sniffer dogs are being used for further clues. Mobile networks in certain areas have jammed and major artery roads have clogged due people rushing back home.

The pattern and intensity of blasts indicate the explosions were meant to cause panic rather than claim casualties.