Major Explosion Rocks Central Delhi Near Historic Red Fort
A devastating explosion occurred on Monday evening outside Gate No. 1 of the Red Fort Metro Station, resulting in a tragic loss of life and widespread panic. At least eight people were killed and six others sustained injuries, according to official statements from Lok Nayak Hospital.
Scene of Chaos: Vehicles Engulfed in Flames
The blast triggered a massive fire, completely gutting several vehicles parked in the vicinity. Sources confirmed that six cars, four motorcycles, and three e-rickshaws were consumed by the flames. The Delhi Fire Service received an emergency call around 6.55 pm and swiftly dispatched seven fire tenders to the location. The inferno was successfully brought under control and doused by 7.36 pm.
Eyewitness videos from the aftermath depicted a scene of horror, with large flames spreading across the area, bodies lying on the road, and brave individuals attempting to rescue victims from the burning wreckage. The force of the explosion was so intense that local residents reported their windows shattering, mistaking the blast for an earthquake.
High Alert and Multi-Agency Investigation Launched
Authorities have responded with urgency. A preliminary investigation has been initiated by a combined team from the Delhi Police Special Cell and the local police. Given the severity of the incident, elite national agencies, including the National Security Guard (NSG) and the National Investigation Agency (NIA), have been roped in to assist with the probe.
Madhur Verma, Joint Commissioner of Police (Central Range), provided an early detail, noting that the vehicle at the center of the blast was CNG-equipped. However, he emphasized that it is premature to determine the exact nature of the explosion at this stage. A high alert has been sounded across the entire national capital territory of Delhi as a precautionary measure.
Widespread Impact and Area Lockdown
The blast sent shockwaves through the densely populated and historic Chandni Chowk area. Sanjay Bhargava, president of the Chandni Chowk traders' association, described the blast as massive, with the shaking felt up to 900 meters away. The incident caused immediate chaos in the market, leading to the swift closure of all shops as terrified shoppers scrambled to leave, creating long queues at parking areas.
In response to the security threat, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) restricted entry and exit at Gate No. 1 and 4 of the Lal Qila (Red Fort) Metro Station. It is important to note that metro services continued to operate normally throughout the rest of the network despite the local restrictions. The site of the explosion is directly opposite the pedestrian-only stretch of the famous Chandni Chowk market, highlighting the potential for even greater casualties.
