A major explosion took place near Delhi’s Red Fort on Monday evening, killing at least eight people as reported by reuters and injuring several others. The blast happened near Gate No. 1 of the Red Fort Metro Station around 6:50 pm, creating panic in the busy area.
What Happened
According to ANI a Hyundai i20 car waiting at a traffic signal suddenly exploded, leading to a fire that spread to nearby vehicles, including autorickshaws and motorbikes. Witnesses said they heard a loud blast followed by thick smoke and screams for help. Several vehicles were seen burning on the road as people tried to rescue those trapped inside.
NDTV reported that heavy flames and smoke could be seen from a distance, and fire teams rushed to the spot immediately after receiving distress calls.
Rescue Operation
As per Times of India, seven fire tenders were deployed to douse the fire. The area was cordoned off, and metro services were briefly halted for safety reasons. Injured people were rushed to LNJP Hospital and Aruna Asaf Ali Hospital, where several are reported to be in critical condition.
Doctors and paramedics have been working continuously, and Delhi Police have requested citizens to avoid the area to allow rescue operations to continue smoothly.
Investigation Underway
Delhi Police have confirmed that the owner of the car has been detained for questioning. Forensic experts and the National Investigation Agency (NIA) have joined the investigation to find out the exact cause of the explosion.
Officials are checking CCTV footage from nearby roads and traffic signals to determine whether this was an accident or a planned act. The police are also looking into whether any explosive materials were inside the car.
Security Measures
Following the incident, security has been tightened across the capital. Police have increased checks at crowded areas, metro stations, and markets. The Delhi Police Commissioner said that all possible angles are being investigated and people should avoid spreading rumours.
The Home Ministry has been informed, and senior officials are closely monitoring the situation. Neighboring states like Haryana and Uttar Pradesh have also been put on high alert.
Eyewitness Accounts
Several witnesses described the explosion as “sudden and terrifying.” One local shopkeeper told News18 “The car stopped at the red light and within seconds, it exploded. Flames reached nearby vehicles, and people ran for their lives.”
Others said they saw bystanders trying to pull victims out of burning vehicles before emergency services arrived.
Why It Matters
The Red Fort area is a major tourist spot and a high-security zone. The incident has raised serious concerns about safety and the risk of such events in crowded areas. Authorities are now focusing on whether there was any security lapse or mechanical fault in the vehicle.
The police said that a detailed report will be released soon after the forensic results are confirmed. For now, rescue and recovery work continues at the site, and teams are inspecting burnt vehicles and debris for clues.
This tragic incident has left Delhi in shock, and officials have assured that those responsible will be identified and strict action will be taken once the investigation is complete.