An explosion occurred near Gate No. 1 of Delhi’s Red Fort (Lal Qila) Metro Station on Monday evening, causing panic in one of the most heavily secured areas of the capital. The blast, which took place in a parked car, led to a fire that quickly spread to three nearby vehicles before emergency responders arrived. The incident prompted an immediate security lockdown around the historic Red Fort complex, which draws hundreds of visitors daily.
According to officials from the Delhi Fire Department, the control room received an emergency call reporting the explosion at approximately 6:55 p.m. Seven fire tenders were immediately dispatched to the scene, along with 15 CAT ambulances and police personnel from nearby stations. Firefighters brought the situation under control within a short period, preventing the flames from spreading further into the surrounding area. Eyewitnesses described hearing a loud sound followed by thick smoke rising near the metro entrance, which caused commuters and bystanders to rush away in fear.
Authorities confirmed that several people sustained minor injuries, primarily due to the heat and shockwave from the explosion. Paramedics provided first aid at the site, and those requiring further medical attention were transported to nearby hospitals. Officials have not yet confirmed the total number of injured persons.
Preliminary information suggests that the explosion originated inside one of the parked cars, though the specific cause remains unclear. Forensic experts have been deployed to examine debris and residue from the site to determine whether the incident resulted from a mechanical fault, fuel leakage, or deliberate act. The forensic investigation will also analyze chemical traces to rule out the presence of any explosive materials.
In the aftermath, police cordoned off a large section surrounding the metro gate and Red Fort area to facilitate a detailed inspection. Sniffer dogs and bomb disposal units were also seen at the site, ensuring there were no secondary explosive devices. Traffic movement around the Red Fort and adjoining areas such as Chandni Chowk and Daryaganj was temporarily diverted, leading to congestion in nearby routes. Metro services at Lal Qila Station were briefly suspended as a precaution but resumed after safety clearance.
Senior officials from the Delhi Police and Fire Department visited the spot to assess the situation. A senior fire official stated that while the fire had been fully contained, the cause of the initial blast would only be determined after forensic results are received. Investigators are also reviewing CCTV footage from surrounding areas, including the metro entrance and nearby intersections, to trace any suspicious movement prior to the explosion.
Residents and shopkeepers in the vicinity expressed alarm over the incident, noting that such an occurrence near a prominent heritage monument underscores the need for stricter surveillance measures. Authorities have assured the public that all necessary precautions are being taken and that the incident appears isolated at this stage.
As the investigation continues, both the Delhi Police and Fire Department have urged citizens to avoid speculation and allow officials to complete their examination. Additional security measures have been implemented around major metro stations and tourist sites in central Delhi as a preventive step.
The explosion near Red Fort’s Lal Qila Metro Station serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance in crowded urban areas. While the exact cause is still under investigation, the coordinated response from emergency teams helped avert a larger tragedy. Police officials have confirmed that further updates will be issued once forensic and technical assessments are complete, ensuring transparency in the ongoing probe.
