At least eight individuals have lost their lives, and more than 20 have sustained injuries following a car explosion that occurred near Delhi’s historic Red Fort. The tragic event was confirmed by Delhi City police spokesperson Sanjay Tyagi, who indicated that an investigation is underway to determine the cause of the explosion, with efforts focused on exploring all possible leads.
The explosion, which took place at approximately 6:52 PM local time, involved a Hyundai i20 vehicle that was carrying three people when it detonated at a red light, resulting in extensive damage to nearby cars. Delhi Police Commissioner Satish Golcha reported that the blast site was adjacent to a metro station close to one of the city’s key tourist landmarks, the Red Fort—built in the 17th century and a site where Indian prime ministers deliver Independence Day speeches each year.
In the wake of the incident, heightened security measures have been enacted across neighboring states, including Uttar Pradesh, where sensitive religious sites and border districts are under increased surveillance. Local authorities have dispatched teams from India’s National Security Guard and National Investigation Agency to investigate the explosion alongside forensic experts.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed his condolences to the victims’ families, while opposition leader Rahul Gandhi described the incident as “extremely heartbreaking.” Eyewitness accounts suggest a scene of chaos and devastation, with local business owners recalling efforts to rescue those trapped within the vehicles amidst flames and distress.
The explosion has sparked fears of potential terror activity, leading to an elevated alert status in India’s financial capital, Mumbai, as authorities continue to assess the implications of this tragic event. The incident has drawn attention to public safety and the need for decisive action to address vulnerabilities in urban areas, as officials face the challenge of restoring peace and security.
As investigations proceed, there is hope that concerted efforts from law enforcement and community support can lead to a clearer understanding of the incident and the implementation of measures that will enhance safety in densely populated cities like Delhi.