One dead in blast outside Lahore hotel

The blast occurred at around 11:45am in the old Anarkali area.

LAHORE: A high-intensity blast occurred outside the Sindhi Biryani hotel in old Anarkali, Lahore -- also known as 'food street' -- on Thursday, Express News reported. At least one person died, while at least 16 others were injured in the blast. 

DCO Naseem Sadiq confirmed that two of the injured are in critical condition. The injured were shifted to Mayo Hospital.

The Bomb Disposal Squad's (BDS) personnel said that a timed devide was used in the blast.

Old Anarkali and the food street are popular public spots and are frequented by people especially in the morning for breakfast, and on weekends. A number of key official buildings, including the IGP office, are located in the neighbourhood.

The blast occurred at around 11:45am. According to eye witnesses, an unknown person had left a bag in the area prior to the blast. The high-intensity explosion shattered windows and glass doors in many buildings in the area.

The area has been cordoned off by the police and the rescue teams have started relief work.

All roads leading to Old Anarkali Bazaar have been closed off. A search operation with the help of sniffer dogs is underway.

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chairman Imran Khan and Dr Tahirul Qadri condemned the blast.

Strongly condemn the blast in Anarkali Lahore; prayers go to the victims and their families.

— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) October 10, 2013

We condemn the blasts taking place across Pakistan on a daily basis, threatening the lives of the innocent. #OldAnarkali #Lahore

— Dr Tahir-ul-Qadri (@TahirulQadri) October 10, 2013

This is not the first time this exact location has been targeted.

On July 7, a powerful bomb tore through the Anarkali neighbourhood late Saturday night, killing three people and injuring 44 others. The bomb had been planted under the deep-freezer of Husnain Cold Corner, located in front of New Bokhara restaurant.