Red Fort Metro Station Blast: Car Explodes, Vehicles Catch Fire – What We Know So Far

A massive explosion rocked Delhi's Red Fort area on Monday evening when a car exploded near Gate No. 1 of the Lal Qila Metro Station, killing at least eight people and leaving several others injured.

The incident sparked panic in the crowded Old Delhi area, prompting security agencies to declare a high alert across the capital.

According to reports, the explosion occurred around 6:55 pm, setting multiple vehicles ablaze. Eyewitnesses described a loud bang followed by thick plumes of smoke rising over the historic monument area.

Key Details from the Incident

• The explosion took place near Gate No. 1 of the Red Fort (Lal Qila) Metro Station.
• The Delhi Fire Department received a call about the blast at 6:55 pm.
• Seven fire tenders and 15 CAT ambulances were immediately dispatched to the scene.
• The explosion ignited three to four nearby vehicles, which were later brought under control.
• At least eight people have died, and several others are reported injured.
• All injured victims were taken to nearby hospitals for emergency treatment.
• Over 20 fire trucks were seen at the site working to contain the situation.
• The area, popular with tourists, suffered extensive damage, as seen in early visuals.
• The Delhi Police Special Cell and senior officers reached the spot to investigate.
• Traffic around Old Delhi has been diverted, and entry to the Red Fort Metro Station has been restricted.

Nature of the Explosion

Police sources stated that the blast was "extremely powerful," strong enough to shatter nearby streetlights and damage several parked vehicles. Investigators are collecting debris and CCTV footage to determine the exact cause.

A senior officer said, "We are examining all possibilities, including a potential terror link. Forensic experts have been called to the site."

Links to Earlier Terror Module Bust

The explosion comes just hours after Delhi Police announced the dismantling of an interstate terror module. The module had alleged connections to banned outfits and was reportedly stockpiling over 2,900 kilograms of ammonium nitrate, a chemical often used in making explosives.

Officials had warned earlier that the group intended to target Delhi using improvised explosive devices (IEDs) made from the seized material. The Red Fort blast has now intensified suspicions that remnants of the busted network could be involved.

Area Under Tight Security

Security around the Red Fort, Chandni Chowk, and Purani Dilli has been heightened. All entry and exit points are being checked, and sniffer dogs and bomb squads have been deployed to rule out the presence of secondary devices.

Authorities have urged residents to avoid circulating unverified videos or rumors online. Investigations are ongoing, and further updates are awaited as forensic teams examine the blast site.