A car explosion near the Red Fort in Old Delhi on the evening of 10 November left at least eight people dead and several others injured, marking one of the deadliest incidents in the national capital in recent years.
According to the Delhi Police, a slow-moving car exploded at a traffic signal close to the Lal Qila metro station, across the road from the 17th-century Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site that attracts thousands of tourists every day.
What Happened Near Red Fort
The explosion took place around 7 pm when the vehicle stopped at a red light. The blast triggered a massive fire, damaging several nearby cars and auto-rickshaws. Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos and panic as flames and smoke engulfed the area.
“I was at the metro station when I heard a loud explosion. People started running helter-skelter,” said Suman Mishra, a local commuter. “I fell from the impact of the explosion. It was that intense,” added Wali Ur Rehman, who runs a nearby shop.
Casualties and Rescue Operation
Authorities confirmed that eight people died on the spot, while several others were taken to nearby hospitals. Firefighters and police reached the scene within minutes and managed to control the blaze after an hour-long operation.
At least six vehicles and three auto-rickshaws caught fire, according to Delhi’s deputy fire chief. More than 30 ambulances were deployed to assist the victims.
Investigation and Security Measures
The Delhi Police Special Cell has registered a case under sections related to terrorism and explosives, though officials said it was too early to determine the cause.
“All angles are being investigated,” said Union Home Minister Amit Shah. He added that forensic teams are examining the remains of the vehicle and debris from the blast site.
A former owner of the car, identified as Salman, has been detained for questioning, according to NDTV.
Security has been tightened across Delhi, with major train stations, airports, and public places on high alert. Other states including Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Bihar and Maharashtra, have also been placed under increased security watch.
Prime Minister Modi’s Response
Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered condolences on social media.
Red Fort and Delhi’s History of Blasts
The Red Fort, built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century, holds immense national importance. Every year, the Prime Minister addresses the nation from its ramparts on Independence Day.
Delhi has witnessed several attacks in the past, notably in the 1980s and 1990s, and again in 2011, when a bomb blast outside the Delhi High Court killed 12 people. Monday’s explosion marks the first major incident in over a decade in the heavily-secured national capital.
Global Reactions and Travel Advisory
The US Embassy in Delhi issued a security alert advising American citizens to avoid areas near Red Fort and remain cautious in crowded tourist zones.
Crowds around Chandni Chowk, Jama Masjid, and Daryaganj were dispersed late into the night as police expanded the security perimeter.
