Terror or tragedy? What we know so far about the deadly Delhi Red Fort blast that claimed 10 lives
Delhi Red Fort
A massive explosion near Delhi’s iconic Red Fort metro station on Monday evening has left at least 10 people dead and more than 30 others seriously injured, in what authorities are calling one of the most disturbing incidents to hit the capital in recent years.
The blast occurred around 6:42 p.m., when a slow-moving vehicle came to a halt near a traffic light close to the historic monument. Seconds later, the car exploded with a deafening sound that shattered windows and sent shockwaves through the bustling area, witnesses said.
Emergency calls began flooding in moments later, with the Delhi Fire Service confirming that a distress call was received at 6:55 p.m. Within minutes, seven fire tenders were dispatched to the scene. By 7:36 p.m., firefighters had successfully extinguished the flames, which had engulfed six cars, four motorcycles, and three e-rickshaws, leaving a trail of destruction and chaos in the heart of the capital.
Government Response: Modi and Shah React Swiftly
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and assured citizens that all necessary measures are being taken.
“Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones in the blast in Delhi earlier this evening. May the injured recover at the earliest. Those affected are being assisted by authorities,”
The Prime Minister added that he had reviewed the situation with Union Home Minister Amit Shah and senior officials. In a separate statement, Amit Shah announced that all investigative agencies have been mobilized, saying:
“We are exploring every possibility and no angle will be left unchecked.”
Massive Security Operation Underway
In response to the incident, Delhi Police, the National Security Guard (NSG), and the National Investigation Agency (NIA) have launched a full-scale probe. The blast site has been cordoned off, and forensic experts are combing through debris for clues about the origin and nature of the explosion.
Police have also begun analyzing CCTV footage from nearby shops, traffic posts, and metro stations to trace any suspicious activity in the moments leading up to the blast. Delhi Police Commissioner Satish Golcha confirmed that “all angles — from mechanical malfunction to possible foul play — are being examined.”
Meanwhile, UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has placed the neighboring state on high alert, ordering enhanced security and round-the-clock monitoring of sensitive areas.
Eyewitness Accounts: ‘The Ground Shook Beneath Us’
Residents in the vicinity described the terrifying moment the explosion occurred.
“We heard a loud bang — our windows rattled. When we rushed outside, the entire street was lit up in orange flames,” said Rajdhar Pandey, a resident living a few blocks away.
Another witness, who identified himself only as Suresh, said he saw smoke billowing from a parked car. “People were running everywhere, screaming. The heat was unbearable,” he told local media.
Videos circulating online show motorcyclists and pedestrians rushing toward the scene as firefighters battled towering flames against the backdrop of Delhi’s night sky.
The Red Fort: A Symbol of India’s Heritage
The Red Fort (Lal Qila), a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Delhi’s most visited tourist attractions, stands as a powerful symbol of India’s Mughal-era history. Located in the old part of the city, it attracts thousands of visitors daily. Authorities have since tightened security around major tourist sites and metro stations across Delhi.
While the cause of the explosion remains under investigation, authorities have not ruled out any possibilities — including sabotage. For now, Delhi remains tense, with residents calling for swift justice and accountability.
FAQ
Q1: How many people were killed in the Red Fort explosion?
At least 10 people were confirmed dead and over 30 others sustained severe injuries, according to hospital officials.
Q2: What caused the explosion?
The cause is still under investigation. Authorities are exploring multiple angles, including mechanical malfunction, gas leakage, or potential foul play.
Q3: Who is investigating the blast?
The Delhi Police, National Security Guard (NSG), and National Investigation Agency (NIA) are jointly conducting the probe.
Q4: What did Prime Minister Modi say about the incident?
PM Modi offered condolences to the victims’ families and confirmed that he has reviewed the situation with Home Minister Amit Shah and top security officials.
Q5: Is Delhi under high alert?
Yes. Security has been intensified across the capital and neighboring states, with patrols and surveillance stepped up in public areas.