NEW DELHI: A powerful explosion occurred outside the Red Fort Metro Station in Delhi on Monday evening, resulting in multiple fatalities and injuries.
The blast, which took place around 7pm local time, has left the capital shaken and raised serious concerns about security. The incident is being treated as a major security breach, with authorities investigating the cause and potential culprits.
Delhi Police spokesperson Sanjay Tyagi confirmed that at least eight people had been killed, and more than 20 others injured in the explosion. The injured have been rushed to nearby hospitals with some reported to be in critical condition. Tyagi said a thorough investigation was underway to identify the source of the blast and the responsible parties.
The explosion occurred in a busy, densely populated area near the iconic Red Fort, a major tourist attraction, making the location particularly alarming. According to initial reports, the blast originated in a car parked near the metro station.
Witnesses described hearing a loud bang, followed by a series of smaller explosions and the sight of cars engulfed in flames. Several nearby vehicles caught fire, and thick smoke quickly filled the air, prompting emergency services to rush to the scene.
Indian media outlets reported that the explosion was not an isolated incident, as security forces in other major cities, including Mumbai, have been placed on high alert following the blast. Authorities have heightened security across the capital, with police forces conducting extra patrols and checking vehicles in key locations.
Delhi Police Commissioner Satish Golcha confirmed that the blast occurred inside a slow-moving car, which was carrying passengers at the time. “When the explosion happened, there were people inside the vehicle. The blast caused fires in several other cars in the vicinity,” Golcha said. He further clarified that while the immediate aftermath left several casualties, the full details would be made available once a comprehensive assessment of the situation was completed.
Golcha added that the investigation is still in its early stages, and the police are exploring all possibilities, including terrorism or other deliberate attacks. The area has been cordoned off, and forensic teams are examining the site for evidence.
In addition to the fatalities and injuries, the explosion has disrupted traffic and public transport in the area, with metro services temporarily suspended near the Red Fort station. The Delhi Fire Service responded quickly to the scene, with multiple fire engines working to control the fires that had spread to other parked vehicles.
Indian Home Minister Amit Shah has been briefed on the situation and has expressed his condolences to the families of the victims. He assured the public that every effort was being made to bring those responsible to justice. The Ministry of Home Affairs has also instructed state authorities to remain vigilant and increase security in light of the attack.
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