DAMASCUS, Aug. 16 (Xinhua) -- A car bomb exploded on Saturday night near the Golden Mezzeh Hotel on the Mezzeh highway in western Damascus, Syrian state news agency SANA reported.

The blast, which could be heard across parts of the capital, did not result in any human or material losses, SANA quoted Damascus police chief Osama Mohammad Khair Atkeh as saying.

The improvised explosive device was planted inside an old Austin car that has been parked in the area for a long time, the police chief said.

According to state television, field teams immediately rushed to the scene, while specialized units began combing the area to ensure the safety of residents and prevent any potential sabotage attempts.

The blast sparked brief panic among residents, though authorities stressed that the situation was under control. Enditem