The authorities in Donetsk have dismissed reports about a temporary closure of the Husak Institute of Emergency and Reconstructive Surgery, and big retail stores are re-opening in the city, the official Web site of the city mayor and city council reported on Wednesday.

"Rumors are circulating in the city that the Husak Institute of Emergency and Reconstructive Surgery and a hospital have closed after being hit by an artillery shell on August 29. All surgery units, hospitals and the polyclinic of the institute are working as usual, unit specialists are at their workplaces providing counseling and emergency aid. The Donetsk regional anti-tumor hospital is working as usual," the city council said.

At the same time, by 1230 the situation in Donetsk remained steadily tense.

"According to local residents, several powerful volleys and explosions were hear in the Kyivsky district of the regional center at around 1100," the statement said.

At the same time, all life-sustaining systems in the city are working, and hospitals admit patients and provide necessary medical aid to local population.

The situation around food and non-food supplies is currently satisfactory. The city authorities have reassured everyone that all main food groups are available for sale.