A devastating explosion rocked New Delhi’s iconic Red Fort area on Monday evening, claiming at least eight lives and leaving several injured. The blast, which occurred near the historic Lal Quila metro station, has sent shockwaves through the capital and prompted immediate security measures across the city.
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Delhi Red Fort Incident Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Time | 18:52 IST (13:22 GMT) |
| Location | Near Red Fort, Netaji Subhash Marg |
| Vehicle | Hyundai i20 |
| Casualties | 13 confirmed dead, several injured |
| Status | Under investigation |
What Happened?
According to Delhi Police Commissioner Satish Golcha, a slow-moving vehicle stopped at a red light near the metro station before exploding around 6:52 PM local time. The blast was so powerful that eyewitnesses described it as unlike anything they’d heard before, with shards of glass scattered across the metro station and nearby vehicles severely damaged.
“I was sitting inside my shop when the blast happened. It was extremely loud. I’ve never heard anything like this before,” an unnamed shopkeeper told news agency ANI. The chaotic aftermath saw people “running in all directions” as the area descended into panic.
Government Response
Federal Home Minister Amit Shah visited LNJP Hospital where victims are receiving treatment and confirmed that elite teams from India’s National Security Guard and National Investigation Agency are conducting a thorough probe. “We are exploring all possibilities and will conduct a thorough investigation,” Shah stated, emphasizing that authorities would examine every angle.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his condolences on social media, saying he had reviewed the situation with officials and that “those affected are being assisted by authorities.”
Security Measures Intensified
Following the explosion, high alert has been declared at critical locations including:
- Indira Gandhi International Airport
- Delhi Metro network
- Red Fort monument
- Government buildings
The Central Industrial Security Force confirmed personnel are on standby with constant monitoring. Neighboring Uttar Pradesh has also enhanced security at religious sites and border areas.
Scene of Devastation
Verified videos show the burnt wreckage of vehicles on Netaji Subhash Marg, dangerously close to a police post. The explosion occurred at the busy Chandni Chowk Road junction, an area typically crowded with commuters and tourists. Glass panes at the metro station were cracked or completely missing, illustrating the blast’s intensity.
For more updates on national security incidents, visit our security news section.
How Did This Tragic Event Unfold in One of India’s Busiest Areas?
The explosion occurred at a critical junction where thousands pass daily to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site Red Fort. The timing—during evening rush hour—maximized the potential for casualties. Forensic experts are examining the vehicle remnants to determine whether this was an accident or something more sinister.
FAQs
What caused the Red Fort explosion in Delhi?
Authorities are still investigating the exact cause of the blast. Home Minister Amit Shah confirmed the explosion occurred in a Hyundai i20 vehicle and that teams from the National Security Guard, National Investigation Agency, and forensic experts are exploring all possibilities. Police have not yet confirmed whether it was accidental or deliberate.
Which areas in Delhi are now on high alert after the explosion?
Following the Red Fort blast, the Central Industrial Security Force has placed multiple strategic locations on high alert including Indira Gandhi International Airport, the entire Delhi Metro network, Red Fort monument, and government buildings. Neighboring Uttar Pradesh has also heightened security at religious sites and border checkpoints.
