New Delhi: At least eight people were killed and 12 others injured after a powerful explosion ripped through a car near Gate No. 1 of the Red Fort Metro Station in Delhi on Monday evening, officials confirmed.
The Delhi Fire Services (DFS) said they received a call about the explosion around 7 pm, following which seven fire tenders were immediately rushed to the spot. According to Deputy Chief Fire Officer A.K. Malik, the resulting blaze was brought under control by 7:29 pm.
Several vehicles parked nearby caught fire and sustained significant damage due to the intensity of the blast.
PM Modi, Amit Shah Take Stock of Situation
Government sources told Hindustan Times that Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Home Minister Amit Shah to review the situation following the explosion. The Prime Minister sought a detailed report and directed officials to ensure all possible assistance to the injured and their families.
Before the PM’s call, Amit Shah had already spoken with the Delhi Police Commissioner and other senior officials to assess the situation and review initial findings from the site.
Teams from the National Investigation Agency (NIA), National Security Guard (NSG), and the Forensic Department are present at the scene and have begun collecting evidence to determine the cause of the explosion.
While the exact nature and origin of the blast remain unclear, preliminary investigations suggest that traces of explosive material may have been involved. Officials are, however, waiting for forensic confirmation before making any formal statement.
Heavy Security and Traffic Diversions
The area around the Red Fort and Lal Qila Metro Station has been cordoned off, with traffic diversions implemented in the vicinity. Security personnel are ensuring that crowds stay away from the site while emergency services continue their work.
Senior officials from Delhi Police, the Crime Branch, and intelligence agencies are coordinating on the ground as part of the investigation.
Eyewitness Accounts
Locals near the site described scenes of panic following the loud explosion. “It felt like the ground shook. Flames went up and several cars caught fire immediately,” said a shopkeeper who was nearby.
Emergency responders and firefighters worked swiftly to extinguish the blaze and rescue victims trapped in damaged vehicles.
Ongoing Investigation
Officials said a joint investigation is underway involving the NIA, NSG, and Delhi Police’s Special Cell to determine whether the incident was a terror-related act or an accident involving explosives inside the vehicle.
More details are expected once the forensic teams complete their initial analysis.