Normalcy has returned to central Delhi as authorities have reopened the historic Red Fort and surrounding areas six days after the devastating blast that shook the capital. The November 10 explosion near the iconic monument had prompted immediate security measures, including the closure of the UNESCO World Heritage site, Lal Quila Metro Station, and traffic restrictions on Netaji Subhash Marg.
Monument Reopens to Public
The Archaeological Survey of India confirmed that the Red Fort premises would welcome visitors again starting Sunday, November 16. This decision comes exactly five days after the tragic incident that claimed approximately 13 lives and left several others with burn injuries. The reopening marks a significant step toward restoring normalcy in the Chandni Chowk area, which had remained unusually quiet during the closure period.
For those planning to visit the monument, the Red Fort maintains its regular schedule with gates opening at 9:30 AM and closing at 4:30 PM daily. The site remains closed on Mondays. Entry fees stand at ₹35 for Indian visitors and ₹500 for foreign tourists. Weekend visitors should note that ticket prices include access to the light and sound show, with adults paying ₹80 and children ₹30.
Transportation and Traffic Restoration
The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation has resumed full operations at Lal Quila Metro Station, with all four gates now accessible to commuters. The station had initially reopened with only two gates operational on November 15, but by November 16, all entry points were functioning normally.
Simultaneously, Delhi Traffic Police lifted restrictions on Netaji Subhash Marg route from 1:00 PM on November 15. In an official communication on social media platform X, the traffic police announced that both carriageways and service roads were now open for regular vehicular movement, allowing commuters to resume their usual routes through the area.
Investigation Updates and Security Measures
As life returns to normal in the historic quarters of Delhi, investigators continue to piece together evidence from the blast site. A significant development emerged on Sunday when police sources confirmed the recovery of three 9mm calibre cartridges - two live and one spent - from the explosion area.
A senior official highlighted the seriousness of this discovery, noting that such ammunition is typically restricted to armed forces personnel or individuals with special permissions. The search operation continues to locate the weapon associated with these cartridges, which remains missing. Security agencies are meticulously examining CCTV footage and other forensic evidence to determine the source of the ammunition and possible connections to terror networks or criminal organizations.
Following the November 10 incident, the Central Industrial Security Force had placed several key locations including Delhi Metro stations, government buildings, and Indira Gandhi International Airport on high alert. The nearby Chandni Chowk market, which had temporarily shut down after the blast, has also resumed operations as security measures gradually normalize across the capital.
