A car explosion near the Red Fort Metro Station in Old Delhi killed at least eight people and injured more than 20 others, officials confirmed. The blast occurred at approximately 6:52 pm local time, when a Hyundai i20 stopped at a traffic signal near Gate No. 1 of the metro station. The force of the explosion ignited nearby vehicles, shattered windows, and sent shockwaves through the crowded streets.

Witnesses described scenes of panic and chaos, with bodies on the road and flames engulfing vehicles. Emergency services responded immediately, deploying over 20 fire engines to control the fire and evacuate victims. Several injured individuals were rushed to nearby hospitals. Authorities confirmed that the car’s owner has been taken into questioning as investigators work to determine whether the blast was accidental, mechanical, or deliberate.

🚨 Security Response and Investigation

In response, Delhi authorities declared a high alert, boosting security at metro stations, airports, and other strategic locations across the city. Home Minister Amit Shah visited the site, urging calm while assuring that “all possibilities” are being investigated. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended condolences to the victims’ families and emphasized the need for rapid medical assistance to those injured.

Forensic teams are examining CCTV footage, vehicle registration data, and blast debris to establish the cause of the explosion. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) and other security agencies are coordinating to determine whether the incident was accidental or a deliberate act. Authorities have cordoned off the surrounding area and advised the public to stay clear while emergency and investigative operations continue.

⚠️ Public Advisory

Residents and commuters have been urged to avoid the immediate area of the blast. The Delhi Police also asked citizens to refrain from spreading unverified information on social media. Hospitals in the vicinity are on standby to provide medical care to the injured, while fire and rescue teams remain on site to ensure no further hazards occur.

Officials continue to monitor the situation closely, with a full-scale investigation underway to determine the exact cause and prevent any future incidents. Authorities are also reviewing city-wide surveillance footage to track any suspicious activity in the hours leading up to the explosion.