Shimla: A loud blast was reported near a police station in Nalagarh area of Solan district in Himachal Pradesh at around 9.45 am on Thursday. The sound of the explosion was heard several kilometres away triggering panic in the area.
The blast shattered window panes of nearby buildings including the Sainik Bhawan, the police station and the Market Committee office. Residents rushed out of their homes following the explosion.
On receiving information, Baddi SP Vinod Dhiman along with other senior officers reached the spot and began investigations. A forensic team was also called in and samples are being collected from the site. Police officials said it is not yet clear what caused the blast or what material was involved.
As a precautionary measure, police evacuated the surrounding area and sealed the site. The incident took place at a time when thousands of tourists have arrived in Himachal Pradesh to celebrate the New Year.
No casualties or injuries have been reported so far. Police said a press conference will be held soon to share further details after which the situation is expected to become clearer.
