Blast Outside Red Fort Metro Station: Delhi Shaken, 10 Dead, 24 Injured, NIA Begins Probe

Red Fort Metro Blast: A quiet Sunday evening in Delhi turned into a scene of horror when a powerful explosion occurred outside Gate No. 1 of the Red Fort Metro Station. The blast took place inside an Eco van, killing at least 10 people and injuring over 24 others. The incident not only triggered panic in the nearby areas but also raised serious questions about the security arrangements in the national capital.

Panic Erupted Within Seconds

According to eyewitnesses, the explosion took place around 6:52 pm with a massive sound that shook the surroundings. The blast was so intense that 5–6 nearby vehicles were overturned, streetlights were uprooted, and thick black smoke filled the air. Within moments, chaos gripped the entire area. People present at the site said they first felt a huge jolt and before they could react, flames and smoke engulfed the surroundings.

The fire department received the call at 6:55 pm, following which seven fire tenders and fifteen CAT ambulances were dispatched to the spot. Firefighters battled the blaze for nearly an hour and a half before bringing it under control. Several vehicles were completely gutted in the fire.

Injured in Critical Condition, Admitted to LNJP Hospital

The injured were immediately rushed to LNJP and Aruna Asaf Ali hospitals. According to a senior Delhi government official, several victims remain in critical condition. Hospital authorities have arranged additional beds and emergency supplies to handle the influx. Relatives of the injured crowded both hospitals, waiting anxiously for updates.

Chief Minister visited LNJP Hospital to meet the injured and described the incident as “deeply painful and alarming.” He directed officials to extend full cooperation in the investigation and assured that every possible assistance will be provided to the victims’ families.

NIA and Forensic Teams at the Scene

Soon after the explosion, Delhi Police cordoned off the entire area, including Red Fort, Chandni Chowk, Jama Masjid, and Red Fort Circle. By nightfall, forensic experts, bomb disposal squads, and the National Investigation Agency (NIA) teams had reached the site.

Police sources said investigators are trying to determine whether the explosion resulted from a CNG cylinder leak or was caused by explosive chemicals. Authorities are also probing possible links to a terrorist plot. The NIA and Delhi Police Special Cell are collecting evidence from every possible scientific angle.

Suspect Detained, Interrogation Underway

A senior police officer confirmed that a suspicious person found loitering near the site has been detained. His identity has not yet been revealed, but preliminary questioning has reportedly uncovered several shocking details. Investigators are now tracking his phone records and vehicle movements.

Delhi Police Commissioner Sanjay Arora stated, “This incident is a very serious signal for the city’s security.” He confirmed that the investigation is proceeding in multiple directions and no possibility is being ruled out.

Seizure of Industrial-Grade Chemical in Faridabad Raises Doubts

Just hours before the Delhi blast, Faridabad Police had seized 2,900 kilograms of ammonium nitrate — a chemical commonly used to make explosives. Though no official link between the two incidents has been established, security agencies are treating the coincidence seriously.

The Home Ministry has instructed the NIA and NSG to remain on high alert. Investigations are underway to trace the quality and source of the seized chemical.

Delhi on High Alert, Other Major Cities on Watch

Following the incident, Delhi Police declared a citywide high alert. Security checks have intensified across border areas and major metro stations. Police presence has also been increased at bus terminals, airports, and crowded markets.

Not just Delhi, but neighbouring states — including Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Maharashtra, and West Bengal — have also heightened security measures. Rapid Action Force patrols have been deployed in sensitive zones. Mumbai Police have stationed additional personnel at the Gateway of India, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, and Marine Drive.

Red Fort and Nearby Areas Closed

In the aftermath of the blast, the historic Red Fort, Chandni Chowk, Daryaganj, and nearby tourist zones were temporarily closed as a precautionary measure. The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) announced the temporary closure of entry and exit gates at the Red Fort Metro Station, which will reopen only after security clearance.

Eyewitness Accounts

Local shopkeepers said the explosion was so powerful that glass windows shattered across nearby buildings. Many people ran for safety due to the heat and thick smoke. One eyewitness said, “I was standing outside my shop when it felt like an earthquake. Nothing was visible — just flames and people screaming everywhere.”

Multiple Agencies Leading the Investigation

Currently, the NIA, Delhi Police Special Cell, Forensic teams, and Anti-Terror Squad (ATS) are jointly investigating the case. Officials are examining every possible aspect — from technical evidence and explosive materials to vehicle registration and CCTV footage.

CCTV footage has revealed the Eco van being parked just minutes before the blast. Teams have been dispatched to different states to trace the van’s owner and driver.

Government Appeals for Public Cooperation

The Ministry of Home Affairs has termed the incident a matter of national security. The Union Home Minister chaired a high-level meeting and instructed all states to tighten security. Citizens have been urged to immediately report any suspicious activity to the local police and avoid spreading rumours on social media.

Growing Concern Over Terror Activity in the Country

The Red Fort is a symbol of Delhi’s identity and India’s heritage. A blast in this vicinity is seen as a direct challenge to the nation’s security network. Security experts believe this could be an early sign of a larger conspiracy, which is why the investigation will not be limited to technical causes alone.

A report on the incident is also being prepared at the level of the National Security Advisor (NSA) to identify possible lapses in the security apparatus.

Conclusion

The blast near Red Fort Metro Station serves as a grim reminder that security must remain uncompromising across the country. So far, 10 people have been confirmed dead and 24 injured in this tragic explosion. While the situation is now under control, security agencies across Delhi and several states remain on high alert as the investigation continues.