Mumbai, Sep 22 (IANS): A benchmark index for Indian equities markets slumped almost three percent Thursday afternoon on negative cues from other Asian markets after the US Federal Reserve's comments on downside risk in economic growth.

The 30-scrip sensitive index (Sensex) of the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), which opened in the red at 16,827.85 points was trading at 16,617.46 points in the afternoon session, down 447.69 points or 2.62 percent from the previous close at 17,065.15 points.

The 30-scrip index slumped to a low of 16,575.98 points and touched a high of 16,833.61 points in the intra-day so far.

The 50-scrip S&P CNX Nifty of the National Stock Exchange was trading 1.54 percent down at 5,054.45 points.

Selling pressure was across the board as all the broader markets as well as sectoral indices were trading deep in the red. Metal and Realty indices of the BSE were almost four percent down.

All other Asian markets slumped, with Hong Kong 's Hang Seng index tumbling 4.39 percent. Japan's Nikkei slumped 2.07 percent.