Scientists investigate Gujarat 'blasts'

By Rajeev Khanna BBC reporter in Ahmedabad

Seismologists In India have launched an investigation into mysterious explosion-like sounds being heard in the western city of Rajkot.

Tension has been high since riots earlier in 2002

Local residents have been complaining of these sounds, which they say are loud enough to shake houses.

The "blasts" were earlier thought to be explosions but the authorities say they have not found any evidence of explosives being detonated.

The case was handed over to seismologists from the Indian Meteorological Department after some experts suggested that seismic activity could have caused the loud reports.

With tensions high since widespread communal rioting in the state earlier in the year, the mysterious loud bangs spread fear and anxiety.

Mystery

Residents of Rajkot city say they have been hearing these sounds over the past two months.

A devastating quake hit the area two years ago

One man said he often heard loud bangs as if a dynamite stick had been detonated.

But officials say there has been no injuries or damage to property.

The Additional District Collector of Rajkot, Pankaj Raval, told the BBC officials sought the meteorological department's help after failing to find any clear cause of the "blasts".

Exploring quakes

The Director of the Meteorological Department in Ahmedabad, RK Kankane, said seismologists would be setting up instruments in various parts of the city to record data over the next few days.

He said his department would only be able to talk about the exercise after analysing the data.

Mr Kankane said they would also be seeking the assistance of the Geological Survey of India, which often carries out such research.

The city of Rajkot is close to the town of Bhuj - the scene of a devastating earthquake two years ago.

The quake left an estimated 30,000 people dead and more than a million homeless.