New Delhi, November 10: A deadly blast occurred near Gate 1 of the Red Fort Metro station in Delhi on Monday evening, claiming the lives of eight individuals. A forensic team, along with officials from the National Investigation Agency (NIA), has reached the site to investigate the cause of the explosion.
According to Delhi Police Commissioner Satish Golcha, the incident took place around 6:52 p.m. when a slow-moving vehicle stopped at a red light. "An explosion occurred in that vehicle, causing nearby vehicles to be damaged as well. We have deployed all relevant agencies, including the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) and NIA," Golcha stated. "Some individuals have lost their lives, while others have been injured. The situation is being closely monitored. The Home Minister has been updated regularly on the developments."
Prime Minister Narendra Modi was briefed on the situation and spoke to Home Minister Amit Shah, according to government sources. The sources confirmed that the Prime Minister received updates regarding the blast and the ongoing response efforts.
As per a senior official from Lok Nayak Jai Prakash Narayan (LNJP) Hospital, eight victims died before reaching the hospital, while seven others were injured, three of whom are in serious condition. The Delhi Police are investigating the cause of the explosion, although officials have not yet provided further details. "We are still conducting investigations. At this moment, it is too early to make any conclusions," said a senior police officer at the scene.
Officials from the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), who also arrived at the site, echoed similar sentiments. "I am heading to the site now, and it is premature to comment on the situation," said a DIG of the CRPF.
The Delhi Fire Department also responded swiftly to the blast. Deputy Chief Fire Officer AK Malik stated that they received reports of an explosion in a car near Chandni Chowk Metro Station. "We sent seven fire units to the spot, and by 7:29 p.m., the fire was brought under control. Our teams are still on the ground," Malik said.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of devastation and shock. "When we saw a hand lying on the road, we were in utter disbelief. It’s hard to put into words," said one local resident. Another witness recalled, "There were body parts scattered across the road, and it was unclear what had happened. Several cars were damaged."
A local shopkeeper, visibly shaken, shared his experience: "The blast was so loud I felt as if I was going to die. I fell to the ground three times. I’ve never heard anything like it in my life."
The Medical Superintendent of LNJP Hospital provided an update on the injured victims, stating that one of them is now in stable condition. "Fifteen people were brought in, eight of whom died before reaching the hospital. Three others are in critical condition, while one is stable," the official confirmed.