Three die in bus explosion

A bomb has exploded on a bus in Indian-controlled Kashmir, killing three people and injuring 40 others.

The bomb went off in Pattan, about 25 miles north of Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu-Kashmir state.

Authorities have not determined whether the bomb was planted on the bus or set off by a suicide bomber.

At least 30 civilians and 10 Indian army soldiers were injured, some critically. The three deaths were all civilians, authorities said.

Islamic militants have been waging a war of independence in the region since 1989.

The explosion comes amid renewed efforts by India and Pakistan to resolve the situation in the disputed Himalayan territory, which is claimed by both countries.

A two-month ceasefire declared by India against the Islamic guerrillas is due to end on January 26.

At least 30,000 people have been killed in Kashmir, according to government figures, since the Islamic uprising began.

Human rights activists say the death toll is closer to 60,000.