Red Fort Car Blast Leaves 8 Dead as Delhi, Mumbai and UP Shift to High Alert

New Delhi: The explosion occurred near Gate No.1 of Red Fort Metro Station during evening rush hour. A parked car suddenly caught fire after a loud blast. Flames rose rapidly, causing chaos among people nearby. Thick smoke covered the entire road, making visibility extremely low. Police rushed to the scene immediately and sealed the area. Emergency services worked to control the situation quickly. The blast shook the capital and created widespread panic.

Casualties and Injuries Confirmed

Officials confirmed 8 deaths due to the blast. Around 24 people suffered injuries, including burns and glass cuts. All injured victims were taken to LNJP Hospital for treatment. Doctors are monitoring several patients who are in critical condition. Families of the deceased are being informed by authorities. The incident has left residents shocked and deeply disturbed. Emotional scenes were reported at the hospital and the blast site.

Fire Brigade’s Immediate Response

Delhi Fire Service deployed ten fire tenders to the location. Firefighters struggled to control flames spreading to nearby vehicles. Six cars, two e-rickshaws and one auto-rickshaw were completely burned. The explosion shattered windows of vehicles parked meters away. Fire was fully controlled by 7:29 PM. Smoke and burning smell remained in the air for long hours. The damage suggests a highly intense blast impact.

Eyewitness Accounts of Horror

People near the site described the blast as extremely powerful. Some eyewitnesses said they felt the ground shake. A shopkeeper stated he fell down multiple times in fear. Another witness saw body parts scattered near vehicles. Many screamed and ran without knowing what happened. The explosion sound was reportedly heard up to ITO. Videos of the burning cars rapidly spread online.

Central Government’s Immediate Review

Prime Minister held a briefing with the Home Minister. The Home Minister spoke with IB chief regarding the blast. Delhi Police Commissioner was directed to intensify investigation. NIA Director-General was instructed to send a high-level team. CRPF units were alerted for rapid deployment if required. NSG was also asked to prepare technical assistance. The situation is being monitored at the highest level.

Security Tightened Across Multiple States

Following the blast, Delhi was placed on full high alert. Mumbai increased police presence in crowded areas and transit points. Uttar Pradesh ordered drone surveillance and checkpoints in key cities. Markets, metro stations and public squares are under close monitoring. Police appealed to citizens to report any suspicious activity. Social media monitoring has also been heightened. Panic remains among residents in major cities.

Investigation and Next Steps

NIA and Delhi Police are jointly handling investigation. Forensic teams collected samples from the burnt vehicle remains. CCTV footage and mobile tower data are being analyzed. IED involvement is being strongly examined by experts. Authorities are also checking possible terror network links. The investigation will take time before conclusions are announced. Citizens are urged not to spread rumors regarding the blast.