Overview:
A massive explosion near Delhi’s historic Red Fort on Monday evening has claimed at least 13 lives and injured over two dozen people. The blast, which occurred in a parked vehicle outside the Red Fort Metro Station, triggered widespread panic and a multi-agency investigation. With fears of terrorism and heightened security alerts across India, the incident has drawn international attention, prompting embassies to issue advisories and citizens to stay alert.
A powerful explosion rocked the bustling area near Delhi’s historic Red Fort on Monday evening, killing at least 13 people and injuring over two dozen others. The blast, which occurred in a parked car outside the Red Fort Metro Station, has triggered a massive multi-agency probe and heightened security alerts across multiple states.
As authorities investigate potential terror links, eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos with flames engulfing multiple vehicles and debris scattered across the street.
This incident in India’s capital has drawn international attention, with foreign embassies issuing advisories and condolences pouring in from global leaders. Here’s what we know so far about the Delhi Red Fort explosion, including casualties, rescue efforts, and the ongoing investigation.
Details of the Incident
The high-intensity explosion took place around 6:52 PM IST near Gate No. 1 of the Red Fort Metro Station in Old Delhi, a densely populated and tourist-heavy area. Eyewitnesses reported a “deafening bang” that shattered windows and sent debris flying up to 150 meters away, followed by a massive fireball that set several vehicles ablaze.
According to Delhi Police Commissioner Satish Golcha, the blast originated in a slow-moving vehicle that had stopped at a red light. The explosion damaged nearby cars, igniting at least six vehicles and several auto-rickshaws. Visuals from the scene showed mangled wreckage and burning vehicles, underscoring the force of the explosion.
Casualties and Injuries: Rising Death Toll
Initial reports confirmed eight fatalities, but the toll has since risen to 13 as more victims succumbed to injuries. At least 24 others remain hospitalized, many in critical condition. Eyewitnesses described body parts scattered on the road and victims trapped in burning cars.
The car involved was reportedly a Hyundai i20 registered to Nadeem Khan of Faridabad, though this remains unverified. Authorities warn that the death toll could rise further as investigations continue.
Heroic Civilian Rescue Efforts Amid Chaos
Before emergency services arrived, local bystanders risked their lives to rescue trapped victims. Graphic footage circulating online shows civilians smashing windows, pulling out survivors, and using blankets to smother flames.
One eyewitness told local media, “We heard a big sound. Our windows shook. There was smoke and screaming everywhere.”
Government Response: Condolences and Immediate Action
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences on social media:
“Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones in the blast in Delhi earlier this evening. May the injured recover at the earliest.”
Home Minister Amit Shah visited both the blast site and LNJP Hospital, assuring that “no angle is being ruled out” as multiple agencies probe the cause. Other leaders, including Defense Minister Rajnath Singh and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, also condemned the attack and called for accountability.
Ongoing Investigation: Terror Links or Accident?
The cause remains uncertain. Some police officials initially speculated about a CNG cylinder explosion, while others fear possible terror involvement.
Teams from the National Security Guard (NSG), National Investigation Agency (NIA), and Delhi Police Special Cell are analyzing CCTV footage and forensic evidence. Delhi has not seen a major blast of this scale since the 2011 High Court bombing that killed 15 people.
US Embassy Issues Advisory
The US Embassy in New Delhi released an advisory urging citizens to avoid the Red Fort and Chandni Chowk areas:
“On November 10, 2025, a car exploded near the Lal Quila (Red Fort) metro station in central Delhi, India, with local media reporting multiple casualties… The Government of India has placed several Indian states on high alert.”
Advisory recommendations include:
- Avoiding crowds and affected areas
- Monitoring local media
- Staying alert in tourist zones
Heightened Security Measures Across India
In response, Delhi and several other states have been placed on high alert. Security has been tightened at major landmarks, transportation hubs, and marketplaces.
Anti-sabotage teams and border checks are in place in Uttar Pradesh, Telangana, West Bengal, and Maharashtra.
International embassies, including the US and French missions, have urged citizens to remain vigilant.
Sources:
Times of India
NDTV
ANI News
U.S. Embassy India
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