A terrifying scene unfolded near one of Delhi's most historic landmarks on Thursday when a car suddenly exploded near the Red Fort Metro station, triggering a massive fire that rapidly spread to several other vehicles parked in the area.
Chaotic Scenes at Historic Location
The incident occurred in close proximity to the iconic Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site that attracts thousands of tourists daily. According to the Delhi Fire Department, which officially confirmed the emergency, the initial explosion from one vehicle quickly ignited nearby automobiles, creating a dangerous chain reaction.
Eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud blast followed by thick black smoke billowing into the sky near the busy Metro station entrance. The fire rapidly engulfed multiple vehicles as panic spread among pedestrians and commuters in the area.
Emergency Response and Containment
Fire department units were immediately dispatched to the scene following multiple emergency calls. Multiple fire tenders rushed to the location to battle the rapidly spreading flames and prevent further damage to surrounding property.
Despite the intensity of the fire and its proximity to the heavily populated Metro station area, authorities have confirmed that there were no immediate reports of casualties. The quick response from emergency services helped prevent what could have been a much more devastating incident given the crowded nature of the location.
The exact cause of the initial car explosion remains under investigation, with authorities examining all possible angles including mechanical failure, electrical short circuit, or other factors that might have triggered the blast.
Transportation Impact and Public Safety
The incident caused significant disruption to transportation in the area, with authorities temporarily regulating pedestrian and vehicle movement around the Red Fort Metro station. Commuters were advised to exercise caution and follow instructions from security personnel deployed at the scene.
Delhi Metro officials confirmed that while station operations continued, certain exits were temporarily closed for passenger safety as firefighting operations continued. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vehicle maintenance and proper parking protocols in crowded urban areas.
As investigations continue, authorities have assured the public that all necessary measures are being taken to determine the exact cause of the explosion and prevent similar incidents in the future. The Delhi Fire Department has appealed to citizens to report any suspicious activities or unattended vehicles in public areas.