In a shocking incident, at least 20 people were killed and over 50 others were injured in a powerful blast at a crowded vegetable market in north-west Pakistan's restive Kurram Agency on Sunday.

"The blast took place at the crowded Sabzi Mandi inside Eidgah Bazaar in Parachinar, the administrative headquarters of the agency near the Afghan border. Initial report suggests that explosives kept in a vegetable crate exploded during the auction of the vegetables, killing 20 people and wounding 50 others", officials said.

All those who were injured were shifted to Parachinar headquarters hospital as there was a shortage of doctors and medical facilities.

In a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said: "the improvised explosive device (IED) blast took place at 8.50 am in the vegetable market."

"Army and FC Quick Response officials have reached the blast site and cordoned off the area. Army helicopters have been flown in for medical evacuation of the injured," it said.

Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan condemned the attack and has ordered a detailed report on the incident.

According to officials, as the market was crowded due to an early morning rush the death toll is expected to rise.

Pak to Lift Ban on Indian Films Following Distributors Crisis

BY M. DIVYA SRI