A powerful car explosion near the historic Red Fort in Delhi has resulted in a tragic loss of life, with authorities confirming at least eight fatalities and numerous injuries.
Chaos and Destruction at the Scene
The incident occurred at approximately 7pm local time (1330 GMT) on Monday near the Red Fort metro station. According to Delhi police commissioner Satish Golcha, a slow-moving vehicle had stopped at a traffic light when the devastating blast occurred. The explosion killed eight people and injured 20 others, with the force causing significant damage to surrounding vehicles and property.
Dozens of fire engines and ambulances rushed to the scene in the heavily congested Old Delhi area. Television footage showed harrowing scenes of the aftermath, including a car with its doors completely blown off, mangled bodies, and panicked bystanders. More than a dozen other vehicles, including rickshaws and motorcycles, were left blackened and burned from the subsequent fire.
Official Response and Investigation
One witness described the sheer force of the blast to NDTV, stating it sent shock waves through nearby buildings. "One person's body was torn into pieces. I saw a hand on the road," the witness recounted. "It was a very strong explosion."
Indian Home Affairs Minister Amit Shah stated that the cause remains undetermined until forensic analysis of samples from the blast site is complete. He emphasised that no potential angle is being ruled out in the investigation. The owner of the vehicle involved has reportedly been arrested by authorities.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi confirmed he was reviewing the situation with Shah and offered condolences to the families of the victims. "Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones in the blast in Delhi earlier this evening. May the injured recover at the earliest," Modi said in a post on X.
Security Alerts and National Significance
The Red Fort, or Lal Qila, is one of India's most significant monuments—a vast 17th-century Mughal palace where the prime minister delivers the annual Independence Day address. The area is typically bustling with tourists, food stalls, and vehicles.
In response to the explosion, the city of Mumbai was placed on high alert as a precautionary measure. Neighbouring states, including Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Punjab, also issued security directives, increasing vigilance at religious sites and sensitive border areas.
Commissioner Golcha confirmed that the situation is being closely monitored, with further updates on the investigation expected shortly.
