A powerful explosion shook the area near the Red Fort Metro station in New Delhi on Monday evening, resulting in a tragic loss of life and triggering a massive security response across the country. The incident has sent shockwaves through the national capital and beyond.
Coach Gambhir's Heartfelt Reaction
India's men's cricket team coach, Gautam Gambhir, was among the first public figures to respond to the tragic event. Expressing his profound sadness, he took to social media platform X to share his condolences. "Saddened by the loss of lives due to the blast in Delhi," Gambhir wrote. He further added, "Praying for strength to the families of deceased and for the speedy recovery of injured."
Details of the Tragic Incident
The blast occurred on Monday evening under alarming circumstances. Preliminary reports indicate that a slow-moving car caught fire, leading to the high-intensity explosion. The incident caused significant damage to several vehicles in the vicinity. Tragically, the explosion claimed the lives of at least eight people, with fears that the number of injured could be substantial.
Nationwide Security Ramifications
In the immediate aftermath of the Red Fort blast, the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has swung into action, issuing a high alert across the entire nation. This security directive encompasses a wide range of sensitive locations, including:
- All major airports
- The entire Delhi Metro network
- Heritage monuments and sites
- Critical government buildings
- Other key installations under CISF security cover
The alert is not confined to the capital. Several states across India have been placed on high alert, with local police forces intensifying vehicle checks, increasing patrols, and tightening overall security measures to prevent any further untoward incidents.
Impact on Sporting Events
The blast's ripple effects have extended to the sporting world. The Arun Jaitley Stadium, located just a few kilometres from the blast site, is scheduled to host the final day of the Ranji Trophy Group D match between Delhi and Jammu & Kashmir. In response to the security threat, the Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA) has decided to significantly enhance security arrangements.
Ashok Sharma, DDCA secretary, confirmed the move, stating, "Security to be beefed up near Feroz Shah Kotla Stadium (renamed Arun Jaitley Stadium) on the final day of the Ranji Trophy match." He further mentioned that he would be personally contacting the Delhi Police authorities to request the deployment of additional security personnel outside the stadium premises to ensure the safety of players and spectators.
As investigations into the cause of the blast are underway, the city of Delhi remains on edge, with authorities working tirelessly to ascertain the full details of this devastating event and to maintain public order.
