Chaos Erupts Near Red Fort: Car Explosion Claims One Life, Delhi on High Alert 🚨
A sense of alarm and heightened security swept across the national capital on Monday evening after a powerful explosion ripped through a parked car near the Lal Qila Metro Station, Gate No. 1. The blast, which occurred around 7:00 PM in the densely crowded area opposite the iconic Red Fort, has tragically resulted in at least one confirmed fatality, according to initial reports, and multiple possible injuries.
The incident has immediately triggered a high-level security alert across Delhi, with authorities treating the situation with the utmost seriousness given the proximity to a national monument and a major transport hub.
The Moment of the Blast
The Delhi Fire Services (DFS) confirmed receiving the emergency call around 7:00 PM. Witnesses described a loud explosion that instantly engulfed the vehicle in flames. The fire rapidly spread to three to four adjacent vehicles parked in the vicinity, causing widespread damage and sending plumes of thick smoke into the evening sky.
Seven fire tenders were immediately rushed to the location. Firefighters worked swiftly to bring the blaze under control and prevent it from spreading further into the busy market area. Police officials immediately cordoned off the entire zone near the metro station’s entrance to manage the chaos and preserve the blast site for forensic analysis.
Focus on Investigation and Security
While the exact cause of the explosion is yet to be definitively established, law enforcement agencies are focusing their investigation on two primary possibilities:
- CNG Cylinder Blast: Given that many cars in Delhi run on Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), a cylinder explosion due to a malfunction or leak is a major line of inquiry.
- Foul Play: Due to the severe nature of the blast and the sensitive location, all aspects of foul play are also being thoroughly investigated by the Delhi Police Special Cell.
The confirmed death underscores the severity of the incident, and police are working to identify the victim. The injured, while not officially numbered, were reportedly rushed to a nearby hospital.
City on Edge
Following the incident near the Mughal-era fort, which symbolizes the nation’s independence and serves as a key security zone, a high alert has been sounded across the national capital. Security has been visibly increased at other key locations, including major metro stations, government buildings, and markets, as a precautionary measure.
The sudden incident has brought the highly commercial and trafficked Chandni Chowk area to a standstill, reminding residents of the unpredictable nature of urban life. Authorities have appealed to the public to remain calm and cooperate with the ongoing investigation.
This is a developing story, and further official details regarding the deceased, the number of injured, and the conclusive cause of the blast are awaited from the Delhi Police.