Srinagar, Aug 31 (IANS): Authorities on Wednesday lifted curfew from Kashmir Valley, first time since the present unrest began, while clashes erupted at some places between stone pelters and security forces.

"Curfew has been lifted from the entire valley. Restrictions preventing assembly of five or more persons under section 144 CrPc will remain in force," a police official said here.

After the security forces were removed from Nowhatta area of old Srinagar city on Wednesday morning, youths took to the roads.

Security forces were rushed back to quell the protests after which the protesters started pelting stones at them.

Similar clashes were witnessed in Tengpora area and north Kashmir's Sopore town.

People were seen buying vegetables, milk, bread and other essentials of life on Wednesday morning from vendors and bakers in Srinagar city.

Private transport moved on uptown city roads, but main markets, public transport and educational institutions remained closed for 54th consecutive day.

The separatists have called for protest shutdown till Thursday through a weekly protest calendar which they have been issuing ever since the present unrest started here.

At least 71 people have been killed and over 11,000 injured in the ongoing violence that started here on July 9, a day after the killing of top militant, Burhan Wani.