New Delhi: A high-intensity explosion in a car near Red Fort on Monday evening killed at least eight people and injured 20, according to initial reports shared by officials and local media. The blast occurred outside Gate 1 of the Lal Qila metro station, one of the busiest areas for commuters and tourists in the capital.
Delhi Police Commissioner Satish Golcha said the explosion happened around 6:52 p.m. when a slow-moving vehicle stopped at a red light. The force of the blast set nearby vehicles on fire and caused extensive damage on the road. Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes, with first responders racing to control flames and treat the injured.
Home Minister Amit Shah spoke with Delhi Police leadership and briefed Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who expressed grief over the loss of life and wished the injured a speedy recovery. Security agencies across major cities were placed on high alert as investigators began to secure the area and assess potential links to other threats.
What Happened
- Time: Approximately 6:52 p.m., outside Lal Qila metro station, Gate 1.
- Impact: Multiple vehicles caught fire, debris scattered across the road.
- Casualties: At least eight dead, around 20 injured, according to initial updates.
- Response: Dozens of ambulances and fire units deployed; area cordoned off.
- Status: Forensic teams and national agencies are assisting; investigation ongoing.
Authorities’ Response
Police said the vehicle involved appeared to be a compact hatchback and was moving slowly before stopping at the light. Shortly after, an explosion ripped through the car. Officers set up a wide perimeter while fire crews doused burning vehicles. Medical teams transported the injured to nearby hospitals. The priority through the night was saving lives, clearing hazards, and preserving evidence.
As the situation stabilized, forensic specialists began documenting blast patterns, collecting fragments, and scanning for explosive residues. Investigators are reviewing CCTV footage from the metro station, nearby markets, and traffic cameras. They are also checking for emergency calls or reports from witnesses who may have seen suspicious activity in the minutes leading up to the blast.
Context: Faridabad Explosives Seizure Earlier in the Day
Hours before the Delhi blast, police in Faridabad announced the recovery of a large cache of explosive materials from two residences. The seizure reportedly included hundreds of kilograms of ammonium nitrate and other bomb-making components. The Faridabad case followed the arrest of a Jammu and Kashmir-based doctor, which led investigators to the stash.
Authorities have not confirmed a link between the Faridabad seizure and the Red Fort blast. However, given the timing, agencies are coordinating across state lines to compare materials, methods, and any overlapping contacts.
What Investigators Will Look For
- Device Composition: Residue tests to identify the explosive compound and any accelerants.
- Trigger Mechanism: Signs of a timed device, remote trigger, or mechanical detonation.
- Vehicle Details: Registration, VIN, tracking of ownership or recent transfers.
- CCTV and Witnesses: Vehicle approach, driver identity, and any accomplices on foot or in other vehicles.
- Communications: Analysis of phone activity and signals in the area at the time of the blast.
If a terror link is suspected or confirmed, national agencies will lead the probe. The site’s significance, proximity to Red Fort, and the casualty count elevate the incident’s priority for federal-level review.
Traffic, Safety, and Public Advisory
Commuters should avoid the Red Fort and Chandni Chowk areas until authorities reopen the corridor. Metro operations near the site may be restricted or rerouted during the investigation. Follow official advisories for detours and updates.
- Keep away from barricaded zones and respect police instructions.
- Report suspicious objects or unattended bags to police.
- If you recorded video or dashcam footage around 6:30–7:15 p.m., contact investigators.
Eyewitness Accounts
Witnesses described a sudden flash, a loud bang, and thick smoke. Some said flames spread to nearby vehicles within seconds. First responders arrived quickly and began pulling people away from the wreckage. Hospitals activated emergency protocols to handle burn injuries and trauma cases.
Officials requested the public avoid sharing graphic images or unverified claims online. Misinformation can hinder rescue operations and cause distress to victims’ families.
What’s Next
Authorities will provide official updates on casualty numbers, suspected motive, and any arrests or persons of interest. Forensic results, CCTV analysis, and digital evidence will guide the next steps. If a link is established with other cases, joint task forces are likely to coordinate arrests and searches.
As of the latest available information, the death toll stands at eight, with around 20 injured receiving care. The area will remain sealed until investigators complete their primary evidence collection.
Source: Initial reporting and public statements referenced from NDTV and official briefings. This is a developing story and may be updated as authorities release new information. Want me to add SEO elements too? – Meta title and description – Permalink slug – Open Graph/Twitter tags for rich previews Say the word and I’ll append them so you can publish in one go.
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