Delhi Car Blast: Amid explosion near Red Fort Metro station, THESE markets to remain closed today; Check details inside

A deadly explosion near the Red Fort Metro Station in Delhi on Monday evening has left 8 people dead and several others injured. The powerful blast occurred around 6:52 PM near Gate No. 1 of the Red Fort, creating widespread panic as it damaged multiple vehicles and left the area littered with debris. Following the tragic incident, authorities have announced the closure of the Chandni Chowk market on Tuesday as a precautionary measure.

Explosion Details and Aftermath

The explosion, which originated from a slow-moving vehicle stopped at a red light, caused immediate destruction, with nearby cars catching fire and debris scattering across the busy streets. Emergency services were quickly dispatched to the site. The Delhi Fire Department received an urgent call at 6:55 PM and sent seven fire tenders to extinguish the flames and contain the fire. Despite their swift response, the blast was powerful enough to shatter streetlights and create chaos in the area.

Delhi Police and the Special Cell quickly cordoned off the area to secure the site and ensure the safety of the public. Police officials were seen working alongside forensic experts and the National Investigation Agency (NIA) to determine the cause of the explosion and assess whether it was a deliberate attack.

Delhi Police Reacts

Delhi Police Commissioner Satish Golcha spoke to the media and confirmed the occurrence of the deadly blast. He stated that several agencies, including the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) and NIA, had been deployed to investigate the incident. He also confirmed that the Home Minister, Amit Shah, had been briefed on the situation.

According to Golcha, 'At around 6:52 PM, a slow-moving vehicle stopped at a red light when the explosion took place. Nearby vehicles were also damaged. Some people have died, and several others have been injured. The situation is being closely monitored, and updates have been shared with the Home Minister.'

Initial Investigations

The police are still working to determine the exact cause of the explosion. While no official confirmation has been made, early reports suggest that the blast may have been caused by a gas cylinder malfunction or an issue with the vehicle's battery. However, given the severity of the explosion, authorities are not ruling out a terror angle, and further investigations are underway.

Impact on the Surrounding Area

In response to the incident, the authorities have taken immediate action to secure the area. The Chandni Chowk market, a busy commercial area near the blast site, will remain closed on Tuesday as a precaution. This move aims to prevent further public disruption and allow security forces to continue their investigations without interference.

The blast has shaken the local community, and the atmosphere remains tense as authorities work to uncover the truth behind the explosion. While the investigation continues, the public is being urged to stay clear of the affected area and follow all instructions issued by the Delhi Police.

What We Know So Far

Date and Time of Explosion: 6:52 PM, Monday (Date of the blast)

Location: Near Gate No. 1 of Red Fort Metro Station, close to Chandni Chowk

Casualties: 8 people dead, several others injured

Cause of Explosion: Under investigation (possible gas cylinder or vehicle malfunction; terror angle also being probed)

Impact: Nearby vehicles damaged, fires sparked, streetlights shattered, and public safety measures in place

Market Closure: The Chandni Chowk market will remain closed on Tuesday for safety reasons. However, markets such as Lajpat Nagar, Sadar Bazar, Janpath Market and Palika Bazar will remain open. Despite this, the entire Delhi-NCR region is on high alert following yesterday's incident.

As investigations continue, the Delhi Police have assured that all necessary measures are being taken to get to the bottom of this tragic incident.