A devastating car explosion in Delhi has killed eight people and injured 19, prompting authorities to declare a high alert across major Indian transportation hubs and cities. The blast, which occurred on Monday night near the historic Red Fort, has led to heightened security in Mumbai, the state of Uttar Pradesh, and large train stations.
The incident unfolded just before 7 pm when a car, stopped at a red light outside the Red Fort metro station, suddenly detonated. According to Delhi Police Commissioner Satish Golcha, the explosion sparked a major fire that engulfed “more than a dozen” other vehicles, including cars, rickshaws, and motorcycles, leaving them blackened and destroyed.
Emergency services responded en masse, with dozens of fire engines and ambulances arriving at the scene. The 19 injured individuals were rescued and transported to a government hospital. Witnesses at the scene described the chaos, with one resident recounting the horrific sight of “body parts all over” and another cab driver, Shahrukh, stating he “started running” as soonloading=”lazy” as he heard the blast.
The investigation is being personally overseen by Home Minister Amit Shah, who visited the site. He stated that the cause is not yet known and that “all angles” are being investigated. The registered owner of the car has reportedly been detained for questioning.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences on social media, confirming he is reviewing the situation. The blast occurred in the heavily congested Old Delhi area, a major tourist draw, adding to the shock and concern.
