41.   An AFP reporter visiting Biaro heard -- beyond a rebel barrier -- the noise of a mechanical shovel which villagers said had been requisitioned by rebel troops.

42.   An AFP reporter heard at least five large explosions shortly before dawn from behind the crest of a peak in the White Mountains of eastern Afghanistan.

43.   An AFP reporter inside parliament heard several louder explosions within the compound, although their origin was unclear.

44.   An hour into their visit, reporters heard no firing.

45.   The reporter also heard helicopters clattering over the devastated city.

46.   The sound of its engines and guns could be clearly heard by reporters from a hill opposite the mountain.