A devastating car explosion near Gate No. 1 of the Red Fort Metro Station in Delhi on Monday evening has left the nation in shock. According to the officials cited by the ANI, the powerful Delhi blast triggered a massive fire, damaging several vehicles and claiming at least eight lives.
Authorities confirmed that 15 people were rushed to Lok Nayak Hospital, where eight succumbed to their injuries before arrival. However, the Red Fort Delhi Blast has put Delhi, Mumbai, and Uttar Pradesh on high alert as investigations continue into what appears to be a possible terror-linked act.
Incident Overview: Explosion Sparks Panic Near Red Fort
According to the Delhi Fire Department, a distress call was received in the evening reporting a car explosion near Red Fort Metro Station. However, the blast resulted in 3 to 4 vehicles catching fire, which sent thick plumes of smoke into the air.
7 fire tenders were deployed to contain the blaze as firefighters battled intense flames in the congested Red Fort area, which is a zone that attracts thousands of tourists daily. Hence, the Delhi Police Special Cell and the National Investigation Agency (NIA) swiftly arrived on the scene to start a detailed investigation.
Videos verified by BBC Verify show a large fire on Netaji Subhash Marg, close to Chandni Chowk, and wreckage near the underground entrance of the Lal Quila Metro Station. Moreover, Delhi’s deputy fire chief revealed that many vehicles, including 6 cars and 3 auto-rickshaws, were engulfed in flames.
Casualties and Medical Response
The Medical Superintendent of Lok Nayak Jai Prakash Narayan (LNJP) Hospital told ANI that eight out of fifteen died, 3 are critical, and one is stable in Delhi blast. Moreover, hospitals in central and north Delhi have been placed on emergency alert as authorities prepare for any potential secondary incidents.
National Reaction: PM Modi, Amit Shah Take Stock of Situation
Prime Minister Narendra Modi immediately took stock of the situation, speaking with Home Minister Amit Shah, who contacted the Delhi Police Commissioner for updates. Moreover, security agencies have intensified surveillance across the capital, especially around metro stations, crowded markets, and government buildings.
High Alert in Delhi, Mumbai, and Uttar Pradesh
Security has been tightened across major Indian cities in the wake of the Delhi bomb blast. Mumbai and Uttar Pradesh have been placed on high alert. Moreover, extra police deployment and increased patrolling have been done in the sensitive zones.
UP Additional Director General (Law and Order) Amitabh Yash confirmed that orders were issued from Lucknow to increase the security measures. He said, “All security agencies have been alerted, and police across all districts are on heightened watch.”
Symbolic Target: Why Red Fort Matters
The Red Fort holds immense national significance because it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of India’s most recognisable landmarks. Moreover, it is located less than 5 miles from the Indian Parliament and just meters from the bustling Chandni Chowk market.
In addition, it is also the same site from where India’s Prime Minister delivers the Independence Day address every year. So, the Delhi blast has sent shockwaves across the nation because of its symbolic importance. In addition, it has raised serious concerns about security preparedness in high–profile areas.
Investigation Underway, Nation on Edge
As an investigation is currently going on, the officials are examining all possible angles, like terror involvement and explosive source tracing. Currently, forensic teams are collecting samples from the debris while CCTV footage from nearby areas is being reviewed for cause of Delhi blast. Moreover, the authorities have requested citizens to stay calm but alert as the probe continues.
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