What Happened
A powerful explosion took place near Delhi’s iconic Red Fort on Monday evening, spreading panic across the area. The blast occurred at a red-light signal close to the Red Fort Metro Station when a car suddenly caught fire and exploded, causing flames to spread to nearby vehicles including autorickshaws and bikes. Witnesses described hearing a loud noise followed by thick smoke that covered the road.
Casualties and Damage
At least eight people lost their lives, and around 20 to 30 others were injured in the explosion. Several cars were completely burnt, and shops nearby suffered heavy damage. Locals immediately informed the police and fire department, who rushed to the spot and began rescue operations.
Police and Security Response
The Delhi Police, along with bomb disposal and forensic teams, reached the area and cordoned off the entire stretch. Senior officials confirmed that investigations are underway to determine the cause of the blast. Preliminary reports suggest that the explosion could have been caused by a flammable gas cylinder or a malfunction in the car’s fuel system, but no official statement has been released yet.
Traffic and Public Impact
The incident led to massive traffic jams in the old Delhi area as roads around Red Fort and Chandni Chowk were temporarily closed. Metro services near the Red Fort station were also briefly suspended as a precaution. The fire brigade managed to control the flames after nearly 30 minutes of effort.
Government Reaction
Delhi’s Chief Minister and senior government officials have expressed concern over the incident and directed authorities to ensure a full investigation. Security around major monuments, including the Red Fort, India Gate and Parliament Street, has been tightened as a preventive measure.
Ongoing Investigation
Forensic experts are collecting samples from the debris to confirm whether it was an accident or a deliberate act. The police have also obtained CCTV footage from nearby shops to trace any suspicious movement around the time of the explosion.
