A powerful car explosion near the historic Red Fort in Delhi, India, killed at least 10 people and injured more than 30 others on Monday evening, prompting heightened security measures across the capital and other major cities.
Dr. Manish Kumar Jha of Lok Nayak Hospital said many victims sustained severe burns and traumatic injuries. “More than 30 people are badly injured, and many are not in a position to recover,” he told reporters.
Emergency services were dispatched to the scene shortly after the blast, which occurred around 6:42 p.m. local time (5:42 a.m. ET) near a metro station close to the Red Fort—a 17th-century Mughal-era landmark and UNESCO World Heritage site that attracts millions of visitors each year.
Police Probe Possible Causes as Security Tightened Nationwide
Authorities have not yet determined the cause of the explosion. However, the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) said airports, railway stations, government offices, and heritage sites across India have been placed on high alert as a precaution.
The U.S. Embassy in New Delhi has urged American citizens to avoid the affected area and to steer clear of large public gatherings until further notice.
Delhi Police Commissioner Satish Golcha said the blast occurred after a “slow-moving vehicle came to a stop near a red light.” Moments later, the car exploded, igniting several nearby vehicles. “The passengers in the vehicle and people in surrounding vehicles were impacted,” Golcha said.
Reuters reported that at least six cars and three autorickshaws were engulfed in flames following the explosion. Delhi’s deputy fire chief said crews received the first emergency call at 6:55 p.m. and quickly extinguished the blaze.
Authorities Vow Comprehensive Investigation
Indian Home Minister Amit Shah, who visited the blast site and later met victims at the hospital, said the government is “monitoring the situation closely.” He confirmed that investigators will examine surveillance footage from nearby cameras to determine the sequence of events.
“We are investigating the explosion from every angle,” Golcha told reporters. “No possibility is being ruled out at this stage.”
Footage circulating on social media and Indian news channels showed motorcyclists and pedestrians rushing toward the scene as massive flames rose into the night sky. Local residents described the sound of the explosion as deafening.
“We heard a big sound. Our windows shook,” one resident told NDTV, according to Reuters. Another eyewitness, Rajdhar Pandey, said he saw the fire from his home. “There was a loud explosion. I live nearby,” he told CNN News-18.
National Leaders Express Condolences
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences to the families of those killed, calling the explosion “deeply tragic.” In a post on X, Modi wrote, “My thoughts are with the bereaved families. May the injured recover at the earliest.”
Defense Minister Rajnath Singh also described the incident as “painful and disturbing,” adding, “Praying for the speedy recovery of those injured.”
Historic and Strategic Significance of the Red Fort
The Red Fort—known locally as Lal Qila—is one of India’s most iconic monuments, built in the 17th century by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. It serves as a central site for India’s Independence Day celebrations, where the prime minister traditionally hoists the national flag each August 15.
Located in the heart of Old Delhi, the area surrounding the Red Fort is typically crowded with locals, tourists, and commuters, especially in the evening hours when the explosion occurred.
The blast has revived memories of past security concerns in the capital. Delhi has faced sporadic incidents of violence and explosions over the years, often prompting temporary security lockdowns around key landmarks.
Ongoing Investigation and Public Advisory
Authorities have urged residents to avoid speculation while investigations continue. “The situation is under control,” said Delhi Fire Services official Sumit Kumar. “Emergency response teams acted promptly to contain the fire and transport victims to nearby hospitals.”
Police have cordoned off the area, and forensic experts are examining debris from the wreckage to identify explosive materials, if any.
As of Tuesday morning, no group has claimed responsibility for the incident. Officials said a detailed report will be released once preliminary findings are verified.
The Red Fort and its surrounding district remain under restricted access while investigators work at the site. Security forces have been deployed throughout central Delhi, and additional patrols are in place across other major Indian cities.
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