New Delhi was rocked by a devastating car blast near Gate No. 1 of the historic Red Fort on Monday evening, leaving at least eight people dead and sixteen others injured. The explosion, which occurred in a parked car, sent shockwaves through the capital, prompting a massive security and emergency response.
According to officials from Lok Nayak Hospital, eight victims were brought dead from the site, while several others with serious injuries were admitted to Guru Tegh Bahadur Hospital. Emergency services rushed to the scene within minutes as thick plumes of smoke rose from the blast site.
Summary — Key Highlights
- Incident: Car blast near Gate No. 1 of Red Fort, Delhi
- Casualties: 8 dead, 16 injured
- Response: 10 fire tenders rushed; multiple hospitals on emergency mode
- Investigation: MHA convenes high-level meeting; terror angle under probe
- Security: Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh on high alert
- Status: Area cordoned off; forensic and bomb squads on-site
Fire and Rescue Operations Underway
The Delhi Fire Service dispatched ten fire tenders to control the blaze and assist in rescue efforts. Several vehicles in the vicinity were reportedly damaged due to the impact of the explosion. Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos and panic as security personnel cordoned off the area and began evacuating the injured.
“There was a sudden loud bang, followed by fire and smoke. People started running in every direction,” said an eyewitness near the Red Fort.
MHA Calls Emergency Meeting, Terror Angle Not Ruled Out
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has convened a high-level security meeting in the wake of the incident. Senior officials from Delhi Police, Intelligence Bureau, and the National Investigation Agency (NIA) are attending the meeting to assess the situation.
Sources suggest that no angle has been ruled out, including the possibility of a terror attack. Forensic teams have begun collecting evidence from the site to determine the nature and source of the explosion.
Security Tightened Across States
Following the blast, Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh have been placed on high alert.
In Mumbai, police have stepped up security at railway stations, airports, and other sensitive installations. “Patrolling and checking have been intensified across the city,” said a senior police official.
In Uttar Pradesh, ADG Law and Order Amitabh Yash confirmed that all districts have been instructed to enhance surveillance at religious sites, border areas, and public places.
Police and Forensic Teams at Work
Top Delhi Police officials, including senior officers from the Special Cell, are present at the site. Bomb disposal squads and forensic experts are examining the remnants of the vehicle to trace the explosives used.
Traffic movement near the Red Fort and adjoining areas has been restricted, and commuters have been advised to avoid the route until further notice.
Nation on Alert as Investigation Continues
As the investigation continues, authorities have urged citizens to stay calm and avoid spreading unverified information on social media. The area remains under tight security, with drones deployed for aerial monitoring.
Officials are expected to issue a detailed statement once preliminary findings are available.