A powerful explosion near the Red Fort Metro Station in Delhi on Monday evening has left eight people dead and 18 injured, according to Delhi Police officials. The blast, which occurred inside a parked car, sent shockwaves across the capital and led to immediate security lockdowns in several states.
The explosion was so intense that it shattered nearby windows and set several vehicles ablaze, including six cars, two e-rickshaws, and one autorickshaw. Thick plumes of smoke were seen rising from the congested area, while emergency teams rushed to rescue those trapped in the wreckage.
“The blast occurred in a car parked near Red Fort Metro Station gate number 1. The intensity was quite high. Injuries are feared,”
said a senior Delhi Fire Service official.
Rescue Operations and Investigation Underway
Seven fire tenders and multiple police teams were deployed immediately. All injured persons were taken to LNJP Hospital, where they are receiving treatment. Forensic experts are currently analyzing debris from the site to determine the exact cause of the explosion.
A Delhi Police official told Hindustan Times that there was no crater at the site, making it uncertain whether this was a bomb blast or a mechanical explosion. “The Eeco car involved had two to three occupants who were severely injured. Samples have been collected for forensic analysis,” the officer said.
Nationwide Security Alert
In response to the incident, Home Minister Amit Shah spoke with top Delhi Police and Intelligence Bureau officials and will visit the blast site soon. He is also updating Prime Minister Narendra Modi on developments.
Following the explosion, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Maharashtra were placed on high alert, with increased police presence at key transportation hubs, including railway stations and metro stations.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath instructed senior officers to remain “alert and active in the field,” while Maharashtra Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis called for heightened vigilance after a recent ammonium nitrate seizure in Faridabad.
Political and Public Reactions
Political leaders across India have condemned the incident and expressed condolences.
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Rahul Gandhi described the explosion as “heartbreaking and deeply concerning.”
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Shashi Tharoor urged the public to stay calm and follow official advisories.
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Aaditya Thackeray and Sukhbir Singh Badal extended prayers for the victims and demanded swift justice.
Markets and Public Spaces Affected
As a precautionary measure, Chandni Chowk Market will remain closed on Tuesday, according to local traders’ associations. Security checks have been intensified in crowded markets and public transport areas.
What’s Next
Authorities have not yet confirmed whether the blast was a terror attack or an accidental explosion. A joint investigation involving the Delhi Police, NIA, and IB is underway.
Citizens are advised to stay alert, avoid spreading unverified information, and cooperate with authorities as the investigation continues.
