A series of blasts and firing have been heard Monday near the U.S. consulate in northwestern Pakistani city of Peshawar and casualties are feared, local sources said.

Witnesses said at least two blasts took place near the U.S. consulate situated on Khyber road in Saddar area of Peshawar. They said five blasts have been heard within 20 minutes.

Heavy fire exchange also occurred between the security personnel and the attackers.

Police and bomb disposal squad and other relief teams have been dispatched toward the blast site.

Emergency has been declared in the hospitals in the city.

Reports said that the blasts were extremely powerful and heard far and wide.