A tense silence enveloped the vicinity of Delhi's historic Red Fort on Thursday, a day after a powerful bomb blast shook the area and claimed one life. The normally bustling streets around the iconic monument wore a deserted look as authorities imposed severe restrictions and launched a massive security operation.
Security Lockdown and Investigation
Security forces have completely sealed off the area surrounding the Red Fort, turning it into a virtual fortress. Heavy police and paramilitary presence could be seen at all entry points, with barricades preventing anyone from approaching the monument. The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) announced that the Chandni Chowk and Lal Quila metro stations will remain closed until further notice, causing significant disruption to daily commuters.
Forensic teams and bomb disposal squads conducted thorough searches of the blast site throughout the day, collecting crucial evidence that might help identify the perpetrators. The explosion occurred around 6:30 PM on Wednesday near the Red Fort's Lahori Gate, sending shockwaves through the crowded market area and triggering panic among visitors and shopkeepers.
Casualties and Immediate Response
According to police officials, the blast resulted in one fatality and left several others injured. The deceased has been identified as a street vendor who was operating near the blast site. All injured persons were immediately rushed to nearby hospitals, where they are reported to be in stable condition.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos immediately following the explosion. "We heard a loud sound and saw people running in all directions," said a shopkeeper who operates in the Chandni Chowk market. "Within minutes, police vehicles and ambulances arrived at the spot."
Delhi Police has registered a case and launched a massive manhunt to identify those responsible for the attack. Special Commissioner of Police (Intelligence) confirmed that forensic analysis suggests the use of an improvised explosive device (IED) in the attack, though the exact nature and sophistication of the device are still being determined.
Impact on Daily Life and Tourism
The security lockdown has severely impacted business in one of Delhi's busiest commercial areas. Shop owners in Chandni Chowk, who were already struggling with pandemic-related losses, now face further uncertainty. "We have been asked to keep our shops closed until the security operation is complete," said a textile merchant.
The closure of two key metro stations has created transportation nightmares for thousands of daily commuters. Delhi Metro officials have advised passengers to use alternative stations and routes. Additional bus services have been deployed to accommodate the increased passenger load resulting from the metro closures.
Tourist activities around the Red Fort, which normally attracts thousands of visitors daily, have come to a complete standstill. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has announced that the monument will remain closed to visitors until security clearance is obtained.
Security has been heightened across all major public places in the national capital, with police conducting enhanced checking at markets, transportation hubs, and other sensitive locations. The Home Ministry is monitoring the situation closely and has directed intelligence agencies to coordinate with Delhi Police in the investigation.
