Delhi Car Blast Near Red Fort: 8 Dead, 24 Injured — High Alert Issued in Capital

A powerful explosion in a parked car near Delhi’s iconic Red Fort Metro Station on Monday evening left eight people dead and at least 24 others injured, according to officials from the Delhi Fire Services. The impact of the blast caused multiple vehicles in the vicinity to catch fire, sending plumes of smoke into the sky and sparking panic among commuters.

Authorities have placed Delhi under a high alert following the incident, with additional security measures being deployed across sensitive zones. Maharashtra has also been put on alert as a precautionary measure.

According to Delhi Police Commissioner Satish Golcha, the explosion occurred around 6:52 PM in a slow-moving vehicle near the Red Fort traffic signal. “Occupants were present in the car when the blast occurred,” Golcha confirmed, adding that an investigation is underway to determine the exact cause and source of the explosion.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has spoken with the Delhi Police Commissioner and the Director of Intelligence Bureau (IB) to assess the situation. He has also directed chiefs of the National Investigation Agency (NIA), National Security Guard (NSG), and forensic science teams to immediately rush to the spot and assist in evidence collection and investigation.

The explosion, it was reported, was preceded by a telephone call to the Chandni Chowk police station, asking for a "Bomb! Bomb!" alert.

The Cabinet briefed the Prime Minister on the developments, and he is still in touch with Amit Shah on the progress of the investigation.

The Chandni Chowk Market Association, said PTI, would keep the market closed on Tuesday in observance and due to safety concerns for the general mass.

A very strong cordon was placed by the police around the area, as forensic scientists collected evidence from the debris for analyzing what type of explosive substance was used.